Probably a stupid question...from a girl

[karilyn1982]

Hey there - I have a 2001 Taurus SES with 62,500 miles currently.

I recently noticed that I am missing a weight on my rear drivers side tire, and because of this, it has thrown my tires out of balance.

I also know that I need to have an alignment done.

Does it matter which one I do first?

I get free rotations & balancing through Sam's Club - and I am going to my dealer for the alignment.

Should I do the rotation and balance first...or the alignment? Or does it even matter???

Thanks so much...sorry if this seems like a silly question.
- Kari

[TomV]

It should not make a difference. Balancing is done with the tires off the car. The alignment is done with the tires stationary in the car.

[wafrederick]

Get the tires balanced and front end checked before the alignment.Most alignment shops will screw you by telling you need unnessary parts replaced.I have seen this happen,from ball joints,tie rods that the alignment shops say need to be replaced and there is nothing wrong with them.

[atc2be]

I dont think it matters much which you have done first but I would probably get the balancing done first that way the alignment shop or dealer doesn't try to screw you by charging anywhere between $5 and $15 a tire to balance them.

[ronaldomckay]

Just have it all done at Sam's club.