So what does “out of balance” mean and how is it corrected? Imperfections in the rubber or damage to a tire or rim can throw a wheel “out of balance.” That means that one section of the tire or rim is heavier. One wheel at a time is removed from the car and placed on a computerized machine that spins around to determine which side of the wheel is the heaviest. A small lead weight is then attached to the tire to counter-balance any heavy spots until the weight is the same on all sides of the wheel.
Many drivers are not sure if their vehicle has lost its alignment or if a wheel has lost its balance as many of the signs are similar. Here are some of the signs to watch out for:
- A Vehicle pulling to the left or right
- Uneven or rapid tire wear
- The steering wheel is crooked, it feels “loose,” or vibrates
- Squealing tires, wobbly tires
Having the alignment and balancing checked every 5,000 to 6,000 miles can help maximize the lifespan of your tires and keep your vehicle driving safely. Also, any time you have tires repaired or rotated, be sure to have the alignment and balancing checked.