Tires: Alignment & Balancing, proper inflation, bolt holes

Question
Thank you Barry for the prompt reply. Yes indeed your answer was helpful. Could you also tell me is it possible for a first timer like me to adjust the alignment and balancing, and that are there any specific Do's and Don'ts to avoid tyres getting malaligned or unbalanced.
-------------------------

Followup To

Question -
Hi Barry,

We recently bought a new hatchback. The dealer adviced that we get the tires balanced and aligned periodically.

1) What exactly is Alignment and Balancing?
2) How tyres get malaligned and unbalanced?
3) How often should tyres be aligned and balanced?
4) Is there a way to detect wheather its time for tyres to be aligned or balanced?

Thanks,

Neo.

Answer -
Neo,

Alignment is adjusting the suspension so that the tires are pointed in the direction they are supposed to point.  Most vehicle have things that can be adjusted to bring the vehicle into "spec", but even if there isn't a factory method for adjustment, things can be adjusted by bending some things or putting slots in bolt holes.

Balancing is using counter weights to provide a vibration free ride.

I think alignments and balancing should be done when there is some indication of a problem or when new tires are purchased.

The way to detect that it is time is tire wear  or a pull (alignment) or a vibration (balancing)

However, you can improve the situation with proper inflation maintenance (once a month) and regular rotation (every 6,000 to 8,000 miles)

Hope this helps.

Answer
Neo,

Alignment and balancing require special tools - so, no, a neophyte would be advised not to takle this type of job.

As far as do's and don't's:  Avoid potholes, drive gently, check inflation, rotate tires.

That pretty much covers it.  But be aware that these things will not prevent misalignment and imbalance - just reduce the probability.