A-Z of Wheel Care: Balancing – Ensuring Smooth Rides and Even Tyre Wear

Welcome to AlloyGator, today we’re diving into our wheel care series with balancing.  Wheel balancing makes sure your wheel spins smoothly and evenly. Each time you fit a new tyre, remember to balance the wheel again. This makes sure it spins properly, keeping your drive smooth and helps your tyres wear out evenly. 

What Will Happen If Your Car’s Wheels Are Unbalanced?

If your car’s wheels aren’t balanced properly, the steering wheel will likely vibrate, creating an uncomfortable driving experience. Consequently, this vibration can lead to early wear and tear on your tyres, as well as on parts of the suspension and steering system. Often, the first clue that something’s off is a shaky steering wheel at certain speeds. However, even if you don’t feel it directly through the steering wheel – because the car’s weight might mask it – uneven wear on your tyres can also indicate that the wheels need balancing. You should typically balance your wheels every 5,000 to 6,000 miles or follow your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendation.

How It Works

Balancing your wheels ensures the weight distributes evenly across the wheel and tyre. Therefore, it is crucial for achieving even tyre wear and ensuring your car drives smoothly, especially at high speeds.

You can balance wheels using a special machine found at many service centres. Moreover, this machine spins the tyre and wheel together, then precisely measures tiny weight differences across the wheel. It shows precisely where to put a small weight to even things out. The size of the weight added depends on how off-balance the wheel is.

Benefits of Regular Wheel Balancing

1. Enhanced Safety: Contribute to better vehicle control and safer driving.
2. Longer Tyre Life: Prevents premature and uneven tyre wear.
3. Improved Handling: Provide smoother handling and better vehicle control.
4. Reduced Strain on Vehicle: Helps in preserving the vehicle’s suspension, steering system, and wheel bearings.
5. Comfortable Ride: Minimises vibrations, ensuring a comfortable driving experience.

How Much Does Wheel Balancing Cost?

In the UK, the average cost ranges from £6 to £10 per wheel. This fee can vary based on several factors, including the type of vehicle and the geographical location of the service provider. Professional services are widely available and are a wise investment in maintaining your vehicle’s performance and safety.

AlloyGator’s Role In Wheel Care

Although AlloyGator excels in shielding your wheels from physical damage, maintaining proper balance is equally important for optimal wheel care and performance. Regular checks are an integral part of maintaining your vehicle’s health and performance. Alongside AlloyGator’s wheel protection, it forms a comprehensive approach to caring for your wheels.

For total wheel care, trust AlloyGator. Visit us for all your wheel protection and vehicle needs.