Wheel Balancing
Wheel balancing helps to ensure that the weight of the wheel is even when it turns. Every time a new tyre is mounted onto an axle, the wheel should be rebalanced to ensure it continues to rotate evenly.
Wheels that are not balanced or are out of balance generally produce a vibration that is uncomfortable to the driver and results in premature wearing of tyres, suspension and steering components.
The first sign that your wheels may be out of balance is when your steering wheel starts to wobble above a certain speed causing considerable discomfort while holding the wheel. Drivers may not always sense an imbalance at the steering wheel which could be dampened by the vehicle weight. However, uneven tyre wear is another sign that your wheels may be incorrectly balanced.
Wheels can be balanced on a wheel balancing machine available at all Kwik Fit centres. The machine rotates the tyre and wheel assembly and automatically calculates even the smallest differences in weight across the wheel. The balancing machine then highlights the exact position where a balance counter weight should be applied. Counter weights come in different sizes depending on the degree of the imbalance.
Wheel balancing can help to eliminate this vibration and you should notice a smoother ride. You will also experience more even tyre wear which will help to increase the life of your tyres, saving you money in the long run.
Wheel balancing is included with all tyre purchases at Kwik Fit, including our mobile fitting service.
