What Does Tire Balancing Do, and Why Do I Need This Service?

Maintaining your vehicle is crucial for safety and performance, and tire balancing is a key part of this. But what does tire balancing actually do for your car, and why is it so important? 

If you've ever wondered about this service, you're in the right place. In this article, we’ll break down tire balancing and why this maintenance service is necessary.

What Does Tire Balancing Do Exactly?

Tire balancing involves adjusting the weight distribution around your vehicle's tires and wheels. This helps ensure that your car drives smoothly and safely. When a tire is balanced, it means the weight of the tire and wheel assembly is even all the way around. Imperfections as small as a half-ounce can cause noticeable vibrations.

The Process of Tire Balancing

The tire balancing process begins with an initial inspection. A mechanic will check for visible issues such as uneven wear, bulges, or foreign objects stuck in the tire tread. Next, the tire is mounted on a special machine called a wheel balancer.

Here are the basic steps of tire balancing:

• Inspection: The mechanic will look for any problems with the tire that could affect balance.
• Mounting: The tire assembly (tire mounted on the wheel) will be placed on the machine's center cone.
• Spinning: The machine rotates the tire and wheel assembly at high speed to identify areas that are heavier or lighter. Sophisticated balancers use sensors to detect these imbalances.
• Adding weights: Based on the machine's readout, the technician attaches small weights to the inner or outer rim of the wheel in specific locations. These weights counteract the imbalance and ensure even weight distribution. There are two main types of weights used for tire balancing:
  • Clip-on weights: These are the most common type. They simply clip onto the outer lip of the rim.
  • Stick-on weights: These weights are applied to the inner barrel of the wheel behind the spokes for a more discreet look. They are often used on aluminum alloy wheels.

Why Do You Need Tire Balancing?

Now that we know what tire balancing is and what it does, let's explore why it's a critical service for any vehicle owner:

Impact on Vehicle Performance

Unbalanced tires lack uniform weight distribution around the wheel. This uneven weight distribution can lead to several problems for your vehicle, including:

• Vibrations: This is the most noticeable symptom of unbalanced tires. You might feel a shaking sensation in the steering wheel, seat, or floorboard, especially at higher speeds. These vibrations can compromise vehicle handling and make driving less comfortable.
• Uneven tire wear: Unbalanced tires cause some parts of the tread to wear out faster than others. This reduces the overall life span of your tires and can lead to premature replacement.
• Reduced fuel efficiency: An unbalanced tire creates a small hopping motion as it rotates. This extra friction increases the workload on the engine, which can decrease your gas mileage.

Safety Considerations

Safety is paramount when it comes to driving, and unbalanced tires can be hazardous in a few ways:

• Accidents: Poor tire balance can cause handling issues, especially at higher speeds or during emergency maneuvers. This can increase the risk of accidents.
• Longer stopping distances: Unbalanced tires can affect a vehicle's ability to come to a complete stop quickly. This can be especially dangerous in emergency situations.
• Increased wear and tear: Unbalanced tires put extra stress on the suspension system, steering components, and wheel bearings, leading to more frequent and expensive repairs.

How Often To Have Tire Balancing Done

Frequent tire balancing keeps your ride smooth and your vehicle in good shape. But how often should this service be performed?

• Manufacturer recommendations: Most car manufacturers suggest balancing your tires every 6,000 to 8,000 miles. However, some vehicles may need more frequent balancing due to factors such as:
  • Driving habits: If you frequently drive on rough roads or hit potholes, your tires may become unbalanced more quickly.
  • Tire type: Low-profile tires tend to be more susceptible to imbalance due to their stiffer sidewalls.
  • Wheel composition: Alloy wheels can be more prone to warping than steel wheels, which can affect balance.

Signs That Your Tires Need Balancing:

It's essential to recognize the signs that indicate your tires may need balancing, including:

• Vibrations: If you feel unusual vibrations, especially at higher speeds or when maintaining a steady cruising speed, it's time to check your tire balance.
• Uneven tire wear: Look at the tread on your tires. If one section is more worn than others, particularly on the edges or on one side of the tire, they likely need balancing.
• Noisy ride: A suddenly noisy ride, especially a thumping or humming sound that seems to correlate with your vehicle's speed, can be a strong indicator that your tires are out of balance.
• Steering wheel shimmy: If you experience a shaking sensation in the steering wheel at certain speeds, even when your hands are off the wheel, it could be a sign of unbalanced tires.

Include Tire Balancing Service in Your Routine to Maximize Tire Performance

Tire balancing might seem like a minor tire service, but it's essential for your vehicle's health and safety. From preventing vibrations and uneven wear to ensuring better fuel efficiency and overall safety, balanced tires contribute significantly to your driving experience. Make it a point to get your tires balanced regularly, following the manufacturer's recommendations or addressing any warning signs you notice. Doing so will keep your ride smooth and safe, allowing you to enjoy the road with peace of mind.

Don't let unbalanced tires lead to a bumpy ride and damaged tread! When you need tire balancing in Tucson, AZ, look no further than BRAKEmax Tire & Service Centers. Our ASE-certified mechanics can expertly perform your routine tire balancing service, ensuring a smoother ride and maximizing your tire life span.

Plus, we offer a comprehensive menu of auto maintenance and repair services to keep your vehicle running at its best.