About Wheel Balancing

Wheel Balancing in Halifax – Causes of Steering Wheel Vibration

Written by Eric Roberts

A shaking steering wheel can take the pleasure out of a journey. You might notice it on the way out of Halifax or once you reach a steady speed on the motorway. Sometimes the vibration comes through the seat or floor instead.

Wheel imbalance is one possible cause, but it needs checking properly. A damaged tyre, bent wheel or another mechanical fault can produce similar symptoms.

At Pellon Tyres, we balance wheels when fitting new tyres and after removing and refitting a tyre for a puncture repair. It is an everyday workshop job that makes an important difference to how a car feels on the road.

What does wheel balancing involve?

A tyre and wheel assembly can have small differences in weight around its circumference. As it rotates, that uneven distribution can create vibration.

The fitter mounts the wheel correctly on a balancing machine, which measures the imbalance and indicates where correcting weights are needed. Depending on the wheel, these may be clipped to the rim or attached using adhesive.

Accurate mounting, suitable weights and a careful final check all matter. The machine helps identify the correction, but the fitter still needs to do the job properly.

How has wheel balancing changed?

Over the years, equipment has developed from simpler mechanical methods to electronic machines that measure imbalance and guide the fitter.

Modern equipment makes the process more precise and convenient. Some specialist machines can also investigate tyre and wheel characteristics that cause vibration even when the assembly is balanced.

Having worked in the tyre trade for many years, I have seen plenty of changes in workshop equipment. The aim remains familiar: identify the problem and help the customer enjoy a smoother journey.

Why does my steering wheel shake at certain speeds?

Wheel imbalance can become more noticeable within a particular speed range. Customers sometimes describe a shake that appears around 50–60 mph, although the speed varies between vehicles.

Vibration through the steering wheel can point towards a front wheel issue. A vibration through the seat or floor may involve the rear wheels. These are useful clues, rather than a diagnosis on their own.

You can read more about wheel balancing problems on our autocentre website.

Can a pothole or kerb impact cause vibration?

An impact can damage a wheel or tyre, and a balance weight may become detached. The result can be a new vibration that was not there before.

Around Halifax and Calderdale, potholes are a familiar concern for motorists. If your car starts shaking after an impact, explain what happened when you bring it in.

Balancing weights cannot repair a bent wheel or a damaged tyre. The condition of the assembly needs checking before deciding what work is required.

What if the vibration happens when braking?

A shake that occurs mainly when applying the brakes needs investigation of the braking system and related components.

It should not automatically be treated as a wheel balancing fault. Tell us whether the vibration happens while cruising, accelerating or braking, as that helps narrow down the cause.

Are wheel balancing and wheel alignment the same?

They are different jobs.

Balancing corrects uneven weight distribution in the rotating tyre and wheel assembly. Alignment concerns the angles at which the wheels are set.

Both can affect tyre wear and the way a vehicle drives, but one does not replace the other. You can find a further explanation in Michelin’s guide to wheel balancing and alignment.

When should I have my wheels checked?

Arrange a check if you notice a new or persistent vibration, particularly following tyre work or a pothole impact.

It also helps to mention any unusual tyre wear, pulling to one side or noises. These details can point towards a problem that needs more than balancing.

If the shaking is severe, or you can see a tyre bulge or other damage, stop somewhere safe and seek assistance.

Wheel balancing at Pellon Tyres in Halifax

At Pellon Tyre and Autocentre, our approach is straightforward: check the cause before recommending the work.

Whether you drive a small hatchback, family car or van, explain what you are feeling and when it happens. We can then assess the wheels and tyres and advise on the next step.

Call 01422 351314 or 01422 362030 to arrange a visit to our garage on Pellon Lane, Halifax, HX1 4PZ.

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