Symptoms of a wheel that is out of balance
- Steering vibration that starts at a set speed, often around 50–70 mph, and fades again.
- A buzz through the seat, which often means a rear wheel.
- Cupped or scalloped tread after a few thousand miles.
- A new tyre that was fitted without balancing, or a weight that has fallen off.
A shake that is there at all speeds, or a car that pulls, is often alignment or a buckled rim rather than balance. We will say which, instead of selling you weights you do not need. Pulling to one side is a reason to book Hunter wheel alignment.
How we balance the wheel
The wheel comes off the car and goes on a computer balancer. The machine spins it and tells us where to stick or clip the weight. Alloy wheels usually take adhesive weights so the face of the rim stays unmarked. After the weights are on, we spin again to confirm.
Balancing is included when we fit a new tyre. Book it on its own if a weight has come off after a kerb, or if a vibration started after a puncture repair elsewhere. Workshop address: Horton Rd, Stanwell Moor, Staines.
Balance is not the same as alignment
Balancing fixes a heavy spot in a spinning wheel. Alignment fixes the angles of the suspension. Drivers mix the two up because both cause uneven tyre wear. If the inner edge of a tyre is worn smooth and the steering wheel is crooked, you need alignment. If the wheel hops at motorway speed, you need balancing.
Call +44 7771 363978 and describe the shake. Read more on our wheel balancing guide.
Questions drivers ask us
How long does wheel balancing take?
A pair of wheels is usually a short workshop visit. All four takes longer if locking nuts or stuck wheels slow the job.
Do new tyres need balancing?
Yes. Every new tyre we fit is balanced. A tyre can be round and still be heavy on one side.
Can you balance wheels at my house?
Mobile visits cover fitting and punctures. Precision balancing is done with the workshop balancer at Stanwell Moor. Call and we will tell you the quicker option.