Wheel balancing

What is wheel balancing?

Wheel balancing means adjusting the weight distribution around a wheel so that it rotates evenly without uneven load. Even small manufacturing tolerances on tire and rim, or uneven wear, can mean the wheel is heavier on one side than another. When such a wheel rotates at 90–110 km/h, the small weight difference becomes a powerful oscillating force transferred to the steering, suspension and bodywork — felt as vibrations in the steering wheel or seats.

Symptoms of bad balancing

The most common signs of unbalanced wheels are steering wheel vibrations at specific speeds (typically 90–110 km/h), vibrations that disappear when you brake, seat vibration at constant motorway speed, and uneven tire wear with characteristic patches around the tire. Steering wheel vibrations usually mean front wheel imbalance, while seat shaking often indicates rear wheels. If vibrations disappear at different speeds, balancing is usually the cause. If they are constant regardless of speed, it could be other problems such as wheel bearings, drive shafts or a warped rim.

Why is balancing important?

Unbalanced wheels give more than just discomfort. The vibrations rapidly wear out wheel bearings, tie rod ends, shock absorbers, ball joints and steering links. Over time this can result in significant repair costs. In addition, the tire itself wears unevenly — you get a "cupping" pattern on the tread that eventually becomes audible as tire hum, and the tire's service life can be reduced by 20–40 % compared to what it should be. Correct balancing therefore extends the life of both tires and steering components, and is one of the most cost-effective preventive measures you can perform on the car.

How is balancing performed?

The wheel is mounted on a specialised machine that spins it up to high speed and electronically measures the weight distribution. The machine tells us exactly how much weight must be added and where on the rim — typically in the form of small clip weights or self-adhesive weights on the inside of the rim. After the first adjustment the wheel is tested again and fine-tuned until imbalance is within 5 grams per side. The whole process takes 10–15 minutes per wheel, and the result is a wheel that rotates evenly from 0 to top speed.

When should you balance the wheels?

The wheels should be balanced at every seasonal change (when summer/winter are swapped), with all new tires, after puncture repair, and immediately if you notice vibrations. On EVs and heavy SUVs we recommend balancing more often than on light passenger cars, because the weight stresses the wheels more. The price for full balancing of four wheels is typically 400–700 NOK, and is a very good investment for comfort and to prevent expensive repairs.

Book online easily or call us on 41 17 32 24.