Is Wheel Balancing Necessary When Installing New Tires?
3 Answers
Wheel balancing is not required when installing new tires. Wheel balancing is a process that corrects the balance of the wheel edges by adding counterweights while the wheel is in motion, ensuring the wheel remains balanced during rotation. The steps for wheel balancing are: 1. Remove the existing counterweights before performing the balancing; 2. Use a specialized wheel balancing machine to measure the weight distribution of the wheel; 3. Add counterweights of appropriate weight at the corresponding positions. Wheel balancing is necessary in the following situations: 1. After installing new tires or repairing collision damage; 2. Uneven wear on one side of the front or rear tires; 3. Heavy or shaking steering wheel while driving; 4. The vehicle pulls to the left or right when driving straight.
Every time I get new tires, I insist on wheel balancing because I learned my lesson from over a decade of driving experience. Once, I skipped it to save money, and the car shook violently on the highway—the steering wheel wobbled like a seismograph, making my palms sweat with tension. Later, during a check-up, the mechanic said the tire weight was uneven, causing rapid wear and wasting a perfectly good pair of tires. Now, whether it’s new tires or re-mounting old ones, I always remind the shop to perform wheel balancing. This ensures even weight distribution, prevents vibrations, and improves driving comfort. Safety comes first—skimping on small costs can lead to big trouble. Especially on long trips, the ride is much steadier, and tire lifespan increases significantly.
Getting a wheel balance is a must when installing new tires. Once after a tire change, my steering wheel shook violently at high speed and I almost lost control. This could be related to minor manufacturing variations in new tires, combined with improper installation and uneven weight distribution that amplifies vibrations. Skipping wheel balancing not only makes driving uncomfortable but also accelerates tire wear, reduces braking effectiveness, and compromises overall safety. I recommend checking it during regular maintenance—developing this good habit keeps your car running smoother and reduces accident risks.
