What is Wheel Balancing?
Wheel balancing is a corrective procedure to ensure the weight of the wheels and tyres is evenly distributed around the axle.
The process involves placing the wheel-tyre unit on a balancer to determine where the imbalances are.
Based on these measurements, small counterweights are added to the opposite side to counteract the imbalance.
Regular wheel balancing is recommended to maintain optimal vehicle performance, especially after getting new tyres.
Wheel balancing
Why Do Wheels Need to be Balanced?
As soon as wheels hit the road, every bump, corner, or uneven surface affects the balance and causes uneven wear of the tyres. If there are any differences in weight, each wheel will move differently around the axis. You should get your wheels balanced because it:
- Prevents uneven tire wear
- Reduces vibrations in the steering wheel and vehicle body
- Improves fuel efficiency
- Enhances vehicle safety
- Ensures a smoother ride
- Extends tyre life
- Boosts overall vehicle performance
Step 1
Enter your registration or size.
Step 2
Choose your new tyres.
Step 3
Choose your preferred time.
Frequently asked questions.
Our most frequently asked questions.
If you don’t balance your wheels, you may experience uneven tyre wear, leading to a shorter tyre lifespan and potentially affecting your vehicle’s handling and safety.
Some signs that your wheels need re-balancing include uneven tyre wear or vibrations in the steering wheel, especially at higher speeds.
Factors Causing Uneven Wheels
Corrected wheels just after a wheel balancing offer the smoothest ride available.
But gradually, the wheels will become uneven again. What causes this?
Several factors are involved in uneven wheels, including:
- Uneven tyre wear due to misalignment or improper inflation
- Loss of wheel weights from adhesive failure or impact
Structural damage to wheel or tire from accidents or curbs - Improper wheel installation leads to imbalanced mounting
- Impact from potholes or road debris causing deformities
- Natural wear and tear over time affects wheel integrity
In addition, as you speed up on the road, vibrations – especially at speeds greater than 50-60 MPH – begin to shake the car.
Often, you can feel this in the steering wheel. Because tyres are in direct contact with the road, they receive most of the shock.
That inevitably leads to imbalance, as one wheel takes more of the weight and wear than the others, leading to uneven vibrations throughout the car.
Other Ways We Can Help
Additional Services From Melksham Tyres
Our services don’t stop at wheel balancing. Here are some of our most popular services.
