Most people don’t think about their tires until they have a problem. But, just like any other part of your vehicle, tires need regular maintenance to stay in good condition. One important part of tire maintenance is keeping them balanced.
If your tires are out of balance, it can cause several problems. The most common are premature tire wear, vibration in the steering wheel or seat, and decreased fuel efficiency.
So, how can you tell if your tires need to be balanced? Here are five signs to watch for:
Sign 1. Uneven Tire Wear
If your tires are wearing unevenly, it’s a good indication that they’re out of balance. You may notice that one tire is wearing down faster than the others or that the tread is wearing unevenly across the tire. This can be caused by a number of factors, including an uneven distribution of weight on the tires, improper tire inflation, or even a bent wheel
Sign 2. Vibration in the Steering Wheel or Seat
If your tires are out of balance, it can cause a vibration in the steering wheel or seat. This is usually most noticeable at higher speeds, such as when you are driving on a highway. So, if you’re driving fast and your steering wheel is vibrating, send it in for a check. A professional can help balance your tires to ensure you’re driving comfortably and safely.
Sign 3. Decreased Fuel Efficiency
If your tires are out of balance, it can cause your vehicle to work harder, which decreases fuel efficiency. This is because the vehicle has to overcome the unbalanced force of the tires, which causes resistance and makes the engine work harder. And, of course, this can also end up becoming more expensive to deal with as you end up fueling your car more for shorter distances.
Sign 4. The Vehicle Pulls to One Side
If your tires are out of balance, the vehicle may pull to one side. This is usually most noticeable when driving on a smooth, level road. The main reason for this is that the weight of the vehicle is not evenly distributed on the tires or that the tires are not balanced.
Sign 5. The Tire Feels Loose
Finally, one of the telltale signs that your tires are out of balance is if one of them feels loose. This is because an imbalance in the weight of the tire can cause it to feel less secure and more likely to move around.
Conclusion
If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to have your tires balanced. Most tire shops will do this for free or for a small fee. Either way, it is important that you do so. Why? Well, if you don’t balance your unbalanced tires, you can run into a whole host of problems. Unbalanced tires can cause you to use up more fuel to drive, experience much more uncomfortable rides, and even put you at higher risk of an accident. So, save yourself the trouble that unbalanced tires bring and get them balanced if you notice any of the above signs!
East Coast Coatings is an alloy wheel refurbishment business offering the best quality work at amazingly competitive prices. If you are looking for alloy wheel repairs in Larne and more, get in touch with us today!