Imbalance is the primary cause of loud vibrations. Uneven tire wear is another reason. Imbalanced wheels and tires lose traction. If you have a vibration-producing car, you may need to have your wheels aligned. However, balancing your tires is completely different from wheel alignment. Read on to learn more about the difference between the two. In addition to creating noise, misaligned wheels can also cause loss of traction.
Uneven tire wear causes vibrations
If your car has vibrations, you may be experiencing uneven tire wear. As tires age, they begin to lose their balance and wear unevenly. This uneven wear is caused by several factors, including tire manufacturing imperfections and poor mounting. Since tires and wheels are not evenly weighted, even a half-ounce difference can cause vibrations. If you notice vibrations in your vehicle, it’s time to visit a mechanic.
A common problem associated with uneven tire wear is road noise. It can also affect traction. As tire tread wears unevenly, it may lead to a flat tire or steering wheel issues. Eventually, tires can become too thin and will spontaneously rupture. This can lead to wheel wobbles, a dangerous situation if you are on a long trip. A temporary solution for uneven tire wear is rotating tires. However, once you’ve replaced them, they should be balanced immediately.
Misaligned wheels cause louder noises
Tires that are out of alignment can be a major source of tire squealing and humming. They also can cause a screeching noise when turning corners. In either case, it is important to check your car’s alignment. A simple adjustment to the suspension and alignment can solve these problems. If you cannot do it yourself, consider hiring a mechanic. Misaligned wheels may be easy to fix if you have some mechanical knowledge.
Another common sign of misalignment is an uneven tire wear. It can cause the steering wheel to become loose and the wheels to not turn in the direction you desire. If you notice the steering wheel turning while the tires are not moving, then the problem is with the wheels. You can also hear squeaking tires if you notice uneven wear and tear on the tires. Alternatively, worn brake pads can also cause these loud noises.
Imbalanced tires cause loss of traction
If you have out-of-balanced tires, you may notice a variety of symptoms. Not only do these tires cause noise and loss of traction, but they can also affect your car’s handling and increase wear and tear on other components. Tires that are out of balance will also make your car’s steering harder and increase the chance of hydroplaning. Ultimately, driving with out-of-balanced tires is unsafe and can cause damage to your car’s rims and other components.
One of the easiest ways to determine if your car’s tires are out-of-balance is to note how many miles and gallons you have driven since the last balance check. Then, do some simple math to determine how much fuel you use for each trip. Incorrectly-balanced tires also stress other parts of the car’s wheel assembly, causing greater wear and tear than necessary.
Tire balancing is not the same as alignment
Many people have the misconception that tire balancing is the same as wheel alignment. Tire balancing and alignment are different processes, but both are essential to getting the most out of your vehicle and your tires. Tire balancing ensures even wear, smooth ride quality, and adjusts the weight distribution in your vehicle. You should get your tires balanced at least once every 12,000 miles, or whenever you rotate them. Fortunately, balancing is relatively easy and convenient.
Tire balancing and wheel alignment are two different procedures that require separate skills and tools. Wheel alignment works to align the angles of your wheels, while tire balancing deals with the individual tires on your vehicle. Both procedures must be performed regularly, as driving conditions can change and alignment problems can develop. A car’s alignment also needs to be re-done if suspension components loosen or hit by other vehicles. Additionally, vibrations can make it necessary to have your vehicle aligned.
You can balance your tires at home
Tire balancing is an important part of the maintenance of your car. It’s recommended to have your tires balanced at least every 5,000 miles or six months. You can also balance your tires when you have your vehicle’s oil changed and wheel alignment. A mobile tire balancing service like Tread Connection will even come to you to balance your tires. If you’d prefer to do it yourself, you can try using a static balancer.
Before you attempt to balance your tires at home, you’ll need to first figure out which type of tool you’ll be using. Some balancers have a hook on one side that needs to be identified on the ground. Another balancer is a cup-type tool that you slide over the tire right away. Before you can balance your tires at home, make sure you inflated your tires to the correct PSI.
