Tires are an important component of a car. If they are unbalanced, tires can lead to uneven wear and tear and vibrations while driving. But, what is tire balancing? And how do you know about unbalanced tires?
Here is a complete guide to car tire balancing and signs that they are unbalanced.
What Is Tire Balancing?
Tire balancing, also known as wheel balancing, is a method to distribute the weight equally on the tires. That said, if the tires aren\’t balanced properly, drivers may feel uncomfortable driving, vibration, and uneven tire wear and tear. Moreover, unbalanced tires may affect the suspension system or cause other related issues.
However, many confuse tire balancing and alignment with each other. Although both happen at the same time, sometimes your car needs only tire balancing. Tire alignment is the adjustment of suspension and steering systems whereas tire balancing refers to the adjustment of wheels to distribute the weight equally on each tire. This offers a comfortable driving experience.
Benefits Of Car Tire Balancing
Car tire balancing provides the following advantages:
- A comfortable and smooth drive
- Less wear and tear on tires
- Equal weight distribution on the drivetrain
- Better fuel efficiency
- Reduced vibrations
Causes Of Unbalanced Tires
Unbalanced tires have certain disadvantages. But, it is important to understand the causes of unbalanced tires. Let\’s go through them:
- Unequal weight distribution on the car drive train
- Leaving the car in the parking for a very long time
- Flat spot patch on tires causing vibrations when driving the car
Why Does Your Car Need Tire Balancing?
Tire rotation and balancing are often carried out at the same time. Besides, your vehicle needs tire balancing to reduce tire wear and tear. Furthermore, it can increase tire life and reduce vibration. Although the vibration can come from imbalanced tires, it can also exist because of wheel misalignment, uneven tread wear, or damaged tires requiring replacement.
When Should You Get Your Tires Balanced?
Here are a few signs that your car tires need balancing:
- Vibration in the steering wheel, under the seat, or the car floor.
- You get a flat tire often or your tire loses pressure frequently
- Replacing your tires with new ones
Alongside, when you get your tire rotation or you drive through rough conditions regularly, you will need car tire balancing after every year or every 5,000 miles. Besides, every once or twice a year when you get your tires rotated, ensure the balancing of tires as well.
This was all about the car tires balancing which is important to ensure tire health. Alongside tire balancing, a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) is also important. Ensure that your car\’s TPMS sensor is working fine or you can replace it with a new TPMS sensor.
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