Tire Balancing

After you purchase a car, it is not just filling gas and checking the air pressure that you need to pay attention to. You also need to ensure a proper car maintenance schedule on a regular basis. This will help you rule out most car problems in daily running. Just like the engine, you also need to maintain other car parts such as the tires and wheels. One of the most important car maintenance tasks that a car owner needs to carry out is tire balancing. This procedure is done on car tires as well as motorcycles tires.

What is Tire Balancing?
Tire balancing is a method wherein the tire balance on the wheel is analyzed and adjusted properly. When the tire is mounted on the wheel, there can be an imbalance in certain areas on the tire where the pressure is more than other areas. These areas are known as 'heavy spots'. Heavy spots may be caused due to uneven tire wear, patches, plugs, etc. This in turn results in an uneven distribution of weight, causing a vibration while driving. Balancing is the process of setting an appropriate balance between tires and wheels in order to achieve smooth rolling and driving.

Why is it Important?
Tire balancing is essential as it rules out the possibilities of uneven rolling of tires, thus contributing to an even tire wear and tear. Besides, you get a smooth ride, effective handling, utmost efficiency, and most importantly road safety. If you drive the automobile on imbalanced tires, there are chances that other parts such as the shocks and suspension may need to handle unnecessary pressure. This can also be done during other maintenance tasks such as wheel alignment and tire rotation.

When to Consider Balancing Tires?
Car owners are suggested to think about tire balancing in between 4,000 to 6,000 miles of driving, or during tire rotation. A rough ride, bumps, and vibration from the suspension and tires are also indication that balancing is necessary. Noise is a very notable factor which indicates imbalanced tires. On imbalanced tires, you will need to add more effort for handling and controlling the motion and turning of the vehicle.

Tire Balancing Methods
Typically, there are three methods in which tires can be balanced. The first method is 'bubble balancing' or 'static balancing', wherein the machine hooks up to the wheel and tire, indicating if the wheel is in balance. The second method is using a spin balancer and computer, but is only to be done in the car repair facility. The wheel is attached to a spin balancer connected to the computer, and the computer assesses the required weight on the tire and wheel. The third method is inserting tire balancing powder or liquid in the tire to maintain a correct level of weight.

If you are using powder, you will need to put it in the tire with an injection tool before filling air. Generally, this method is opted for on tire maintenance of highway trucks and carriers. Other methods include wheel weights on tires and rims. These weights are available from 5 grams to 60 grams or more. Note that more wheel weights may be required as per proper balancing reading.

The tire balancing cost normally comes to about $12 for each tire, but this again depends on the type of method used by the auto repair mechanic. Tire balancing is certainly one of the best ways to reduce uneven tire wear and increase tire life.