July 18, 2024

The Importance of Wheel Balancing in Vehicle Maintenance

Ever noticed your steering wheel shaking like it’s had one too many cups of coffee? Or maybe your car starts to feel very shaky, especially when you're cruising down the motorway? If so, you’re likely dealing with unbalanced wheels. 

While it might seem like a minor inconvenience, unbalanced wheels can lead to significant issues if not addressed. Let’s dive into why wheel balancing is crucial for your car’s health and your safety on the road. 

What Are Unbalanced Wheels? 

First, let’s understand what we mean by unbalanced wheels. When your wheels are "balanced", the tyre's weight is evenly distributed around its entire circumference. This balance ensures the tyre rolls smoothly on the road. 

However, "unbalanced wheels" mean that this weight isn’t evenly spread out. It’s like wearing a backpack with one strap tighter than the other – uncomfortable and potentially harmful over time. 

Unbalanced wheels can result from various causes like hitting a kerb or pothole, improper installation, uneven tyre wear, or just regular use. Over time, these factors can shift the weight distribution of your tyres, causing imbalances. 

Wheel Balancing vs. Wheel Alignment 

People often confuse wheel balancing with wheel alignment, but they’re not the same thing. 

What is Wheel Balancing? 

Wheel balancing is what it says on the tin. To make the wheels balanced, the weight of the tyre and the wheel needs to spin smoothly with the weight evenly distributed. This involves placing the wheel/tyre assembly on a balancer, which detects weight differences and indicates where weights should be added. Every time you get a new tyre fitted, it should be balanced to ensure a smooth, comfortable ride and to prevent uneven tyre wear and road noise. 

What is Wheel Alignment? 

Wheel alignment, on the other hand, refers to the angle of the wheels. A wheel alignment can improve tyre life and helps your vehicle drive straight without pulling to one side. Misalignment can occur from regular driving, especially on poor road surfaces, leading to uneven tyre wear and compromised safety. 

Consequences: What Unbalanced Car Wheels Can Cause? 

So, what happens if you ignore unbalanced wheels? Here are the key issues that unbalanced car wheels can cause: 

  • Vibrations While Driving 
    The most noticeable consequence is vibrations. At certain speeds, an unbalanced wheel wobbles due to the uneven weight distribution, causing vibrations that can be felt through the steering wheel. The faster you drive, the more intense these vibrations become, making for an uncomfortable and potentially dangerous ride. 
     
  • Uneven and Premature Tyre Wear 
    Unbalanced wheels cause certain parts of your tyres to wear down faster than others. This uneven wear means you’ll have to replace your tyres more frequently, which can be costly. 
     
  • Compromised Handling and Braking 
    Unbalanced wheels can compromise your car’s handling and braking performance. The vibrations and uneven weight distribution make steering more difficult and can lead to less responsive braking, especially in wet or slippery conditions, increasing the risk of accidents. 

  • Decreased Fuel Efficiency 
    When your wheels are unbalanced, it requires more power to move your vehicle. More power = used more fuel. Use more fuel = less economical. Poor fuel economy = more fuel stops, and nobody likes that. 

  • Damage to Other Car Parts 
    Those annoying vibrations from unbalanced wheels don’t just make for a bumpy ride – they can also cause damage to your car’s suspension and bearings. These components aren’t designed to handle constant shaking, leading to premature wear and costly repairs. 

UNBALANCED CAR WHEELS SYMPTOMS 

How do you know if your wheels need balancing? Here are some common unbalanced car wheels symptoms to watch out for: 

  • Car Vibrations 

If your car starts shaking, especially at higher speeds, it’s a clear sign something’s off balance. 
 

  • Steering Wheel Vibrations 

Noticeable vibrations in the steering wheel usually indicate unbalanced front wheels. Interestingly, these vibrations might become less apparent as you increase your speed. 

  • Fishtailing 

If the rear of your car sways or "fishtails" when taking sharp corners, it could be due to unbalanced rear wheels. 
 

  • Uneven Tread Wear 

Check your tyres for irregular tread wear, such as flat spots. This is a sign that your wheels might be unbalanced. 
 

  • Unusual Noises 

Hearing odd noises while driving could also indicate that your wheels need balancing. 
 

CAUSES OF WHEEL IMBALANCE 

Understanding what causes wheel imbalance can help you prevent it. Here are some common causes of wheel imbalance: 

  • Driving on rough roads and aggressive driving can over time throw your wheels out of balance. Potholes, bumps, and uneven surfaces cause minor impacts that lead to wheel imbalance over time. 
  • If your wheels aren’t installed correctly, it can result in unbalanced wheels. Precision during installation is key to ensuring even weight distribution around the wheel hub. 
  • Unbalanced brake drums or discs, often due to warping from overheating or uneven wear, can cause your wheels to wobble when you apply the brakes. 
  • Uneven tyre wear, resulting from incorrect tyre pressure, poor alignment, or driving habits, can lead to wheel imbalance. 
  • Wheel weights help balance the wheels. If they become loose or fall off, it can throw the wheels out of balance. 
  • Wheel bearings can wear out due to constant friction and heat. Damaged or dry bearings can lead to wheel imbalance and noticeable vibrations when driving. 
     

How to Prevent Wheel Imbalance 

Prevention is better than cure. Here are some tips to keep your wheels balanced: 

  • Regular tyre rotations and balances are crucial. Aim to do this every 5,000 – 6,000 miles. 
  • Avoid hitting kerbs and driving through potholes as much as possible to prevent wheel imbalance. And yep, in the UK this is pretty much everywhere. 
  • Regularly monitor your car tyre pressure. Incorrect pressure can lead to uneven tyre wear and wheel imbalance. 
  • Keep an eye on your suspension components and have them inspected regularly to catch any issues early. 
     

How Often Should You Get Your Wheels Balanced? 

Wheel balancing should be done when you replace your tyres or have a repair done. They should also be checked and rebalanced if you experience a vibration on your steering wheel, notice uneven tyre wear and suspect a problem with your steering and suspension. 

It is recommended getting your wheel balance checked every 5,000 to 6,000 miles. 

 

Conclusion 

Unbalanced wheels can be more than just a minor annoyance; they can lead to serious issues affecting your car's performance, safety, and wallet. From uncomfortable vibrations and uneven tyre wear to compromised handling, braking, and fuel economy, the consequences of ignoring unbalanced wheels are significant. 

Balanced wheels, alongside proper installation and maintenance, is crucial for a smooth, safe driving experience. So, the next time you feel those tell-tale vibrations or notice uneven tyre wear, don't ignore them. Get your wheels checked out and keep your car in top condition. Remember, a well-maintained vehicle not only saves you money in the long run but also keeps you and your passengers safe on the road. 
 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What Will Happen if Your Car's Wheels Are Unbalanced? 

Unbalanced wheels can lead to uncomfortable vibrations, uneven tyre wear, and compromised handling, braking, and fuel efficiency. Ignoring these issues can result in costly repairs and reduced safety on the road. 

What Does an Out of Balance Wheel Sound Like? 

An out of balance wheel could lead to unusual noises such as squealing, humming, or buzzing, particularly as you reach higher speeds. These sounds are a result of the uneven weight distribution, causing parts of the wheel to make irregular contact with the road. If you hear any of these noises, it's essential to get your wheels checked to prevent further damage and ensure safe driving. 

How Long Can You Drive with Unbalanced Wheels? 

Driving with unbalanced wheels can be problematic, and it's generally not recommended to ignore the issue for too long. You might be able to drive for a couple of months with unbalanced wheels without immediate danger, but doing so poses several risks and potential long-term costs.

 

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If you found this guide helpful, share it with your fellow drivers and motorsport enthusiasts.