| A:When
a wheel is unbalanced, there is an unequal distribution of weight
around the rim of the wheel and tire assembly. The tire may seem
round and true when rotated slowly, but on the road centrifugal
force acts on the heaviest part of the tire, making it wobble
or vibrate (like an out-of-balance ceiling fan). This can cause
flat spots on the tire treads and is damaging to ball joints,
bearings, steering, and shock absorbers. With special equipment,
technicians can measure a tire and wheel assembly, then add special
wheel weights to restore balance. Hitting potholes and normal
vehicle wear-and-tear can cause unbalanced wheels. Uneven tire
wear can indicate unbalanced wheels, so it's wise to check and
rotate your vehicle's tires regularly |