How do I know if my tires need balancing?

Tire balancing is the process of adjusting your set of tires. It ensures that the weight is evenly distributed across the entire circumference of the unit. Common characteristics of unbalanced tires include uneven and rapid tread wear, poor fuel economy, and vibrations in the steering wheel, floorboard, or seat that worsen at high speeds.

When all areas of the wheel-tire assembly are as equal in weight as possible, the tire will rotate smoothly. This helps it wear evenly for the longest possible lifespan. A balanced ride also contributes to comfort: unbalanced tires will shake or bounce up and down, causing vibrations. If the front tires are not properly balanced, you will experience vibrations in the steering wheel. If the issue is at the rear, the vibration will be noticeable in the seat or floor.

Unbalanced tires can be easily fixed, but the job is precise. It is done by attaching a small weight, just fractions of an ounce, to the wheel.

How can you tell if your car needs balancing? Here are some signs:

Vibration:

If steering wheel vibrations bother you, you definitely have a problem with wheel balance. The vibrations can be so severe that you feel them throughout the car, and expect them when you put your foot on the gas pedal for more speed.

Also, if you can’t let go of the steering wheel even for a moment without stopping the car, you definitely have wheel balance issues. When the vibrations on the steering wheel are very severe, it means the front tires are unbalanced. However, if the vibration is concentrated in the rear seat, the rear tires are unbalanced.

Tire noise:

In addition to vibrations that make the driver more annoyed by the funny noises of unbalanced tires that weren’t there before. If you start hearing a hum or buzz accompanied by vibration, it could be a sign of unbalanced tires. If the noise of the unbalanced tire becomes more pronounced during acceleration, it means you definitely have a tire adjustment issue.

Worn tires

This is not really a sign; it’s evidence that you’re looking down! Worn tires are evidence that the tires are likely unbalanced. Regular balanced tires start to wear from the tread. However, when the tire is unbalanced, it locks on the edges, stopping the driving experience. Uneven tires are a sure sign that the tires are unbalanced.

New tires:

When purchasing new tires from a local tire shop, always balance these tires before installation. They may appear perfect and properly balanced. However, there are small weight variations around their margin that need to be corrected by wheel balancing. The rim should also be checked for any changes that might cause the tire to be out of balance.