Guideline on Buying Tires Auto Repairs - Tire Repair, Wheel Balancing, Wheel | Page 8

Wheel Balancing  Wheel balancing is performed by a special machine that spins both the tire and wheel to calibrate the right balance.  During a mechanized wheel balancing operation, the machine operator looks out for proper alignment. If one end is weightier than the other, then the operator will have to make adjustments by applying a counter-weight on the other end. When a tire is not properly balanced, it rotates in a disproportional manner causing disturbing vibrations that will only intensify with time. This can knock out the car’s suspension and cause greater damage.  By checking the tread wear of the vehicle’s tires can provide vital information. Hollow or scalloped wear lines suggests problems with the car’s wheel balance, however odd wear lines (this is typified when one tire wears faster than the others) can mean improper alignment.