Do My Tyres Need Balancing? A Wheel Balancing Guide

Have you ever noticed your steering wheel shake mid-drive, especially at certain speeds or while turning? A wiggling steering wheel is a sign an indication that you need to get your wheels balanced.

Fortunately, it is an easy and affordable fix, and one necessary to ensure your safety on the road and maintain your tyres' life.

 

 

What is Wheel Balancing?

Wheel Balancing (also called tyre balancing) ensures that the weight of a wheel and tyre assembly is distributed evenly for a safe and smooth ride. Wheel balancing is essential for vehicle safety as well as making the most of your tyre investment.

 

Is wheel balancing the same as wheel alignment?

Wheel balancing and alignment are NOT the same things. They are two completely different processes.

Wheel balancing is concerned with the equal weight distribution of tyres and wheels, while wheel alignment is the process of correctly adjusting your tyres in their different angles.

 

Why do I need to get my wheels balanced?

When driving at straight line high speeds, even the slightest difference in weight will cause a significant imbalance in outward force. This imbalance causes excessive tyre wear and shortens your tyre's life.

Getting your wheel balanced ensures that your fuel economy won't be negatively affected as well by the sudden increase in rolling resistance, making your tyre work that much harder - and of course, you stay safe on the road.

 

What are the signs that I need to get my wheels balanced?

Here are some of the most common signs you need wheel balancing services immediately:

   •  Your car is vibrating during low or high speeds:

         ◦  Steering wheel vibration (when front wheels need balancing).

         ◦  Floorboard & seat vibration (when back tyres need balancing).

   •  Your tyre tread is wearing out unevenly and faster than expected.

   •  You are spending more on petrol, and your vehicle is not as fuel-efficient as before.

   •  You discover your suspension is damaged during a regular car servicing appointment.

   •  Your drive is uneven and uncomfortable.

 

                        

 

Why are my tyres not balanced?

The following reasons can cause unbalanced tyres:

   •  Flat spots - especially if you haven’t driven your car or moved it in a while.
   •  Your tyre has a puncture and needs repair or replacement.
   •  Hitting a curb, bump or pothole hard causing the loss of a wheel weight or further tyre and wheel damage.
   •  Colder weather is also a source of tyre imbalance because it can cause your tyre to deflate.
 

How are tyres balanced?

The process of dynamic balancing begins with mounting your tyre and wheel assembly onto a computerised tyre balancer/ tyre balancing machine.

The machine will centre and spin the tyre to measure the imbalances. These measurements help the fitter identify the best spots to install tyre weights for a properly balanced tyre and wheel assembly.

 

                      

   

How often should I get my tyres balanced?

As soon as you notice any of the symptoms of unbalanced tyres on your vehicle's tyres, get your tyres checked and balanced immediately.

When your steering wheel or car seat begins to vibrate, Google "wheel balancing near me" as soon as you can to avoid putting yourself and your passengers at risk of an accident.

Prevention is key! Get your wheels professionally balanced.

   •  Every 10,000 kilometres or every six months, more frequently if you constantly travel on rougher terrain.
   •  Every other time you get your tyres rotated.
   •  When you purchased new tyres from Tyroola and need to get them fitted.
   •  Your tyre is currently flat, and it needs repairs.

 

What are the benefits of getting regular wheel balancing services?

Wheel balancing is a vital part of your tyre maintenance routine. Its benefits include:

   •  A smoother and comfortable ride.
   •  Improved handling.
   •  Increased cash savings thanks to improved fuel efficiency.
   •  Extended tyre life.
   •  Vehicle suspension protection.
   •  A Safer Ride.

 

Proper wheel balancing is something every driver must be responsible for to ensure the safety of their tyres.

If you have any doubts as to your tyre's current state, get them checked to make sure they can be repaired or replaced before anything goes wrong.

Check out Tyroola's other tyre guides to learn more about your safety and tyre maintenance.

And grab the hottest deals for top-brand, high-quality new tyres for all your future adventures here.