Is Wheel Balancing Necessary for Tires?
3 Answers
Wheel balancing is indeed necessary for tires. Generally, it is required whenever the tire system has been replaced or repaired. Over time, the loss of balancing weights can cause an imbalance in the tire's weight distribution. Any operation that alters the mass distribution of the wheel requires wheel balancing. Wheel balancing involves dynamically correcting the balance of the wheel by adding weights, ensuring the wheel remains balanced during rotation. The steps for performing wheel balancing are: 1. Remove the existing balancing weights before starting the process; 2. Use a specialized wheel balancer to measure the weight distribution of the wheel; 3. Add appropriately weighted balancing weights at the corresponding positions.
Tire dynamic balancing is quite necessary, especially noticeable when driving at high speeds. I've been driving for several years and didn't pay attention to it at first, but later found that the steering wheel kept shaking. It turned out to be unbalanced tires. This can make the whole car vibrate, accelerate the wear of suspension components, and may lead to safety issues over time. Dynamic balancing is simple—just test it with a machine at a repair shop, and add lead weights where needed. It's mandatory after getting new tires or repairing a tire, and it's recommended to check every 10,000 kilometers during regular maintenance. It doesn't cost much, just a few dozen yuan, but it saves a lot of hassle. If ignored, tire wear will accelerate and become uneven, and a tire may need replacement in less than two or three years. Regular balancing also improves driving stability and reduces bumps when encountering rough roads.
I think wheel balancing is totally worth it, and it's the most cost-effective from a money-saving perspective. As an ordinary car owner with years of driving experience, I once skipped it to save trouble, only to find the tires severely worn unevenly within months, forcing me to replace them prematurely and costing me hundreds. Unbalanced tires not only consume more fuel at high speeds but also easily damage other components like shock absorbers, with repair costs running into thousands. The process is actually quick—just a few minutes on the machine by the mechanic—and the price is reasonable. Regular checks, like before seasonal changes or long trips, can extend tire life by at least six months to a year. This saves way more than emergency repairs, plus driving without vibrations is much more reassuring. Tires are consumables, and regular balancing is like an investment in maintenance.
