Four different tires, one vibration
A vehicle bought used, or one that has had tires replaced one at a time over the years, often ends up with four tires that do not match: different brands, different tread patterns, different ages, sometimes different sizes that are close but not identical. Each tire may be balanced perfectly and the vehicle can still shake.
Balancing corrects how weight is distributed around one wheel. It does not correct differences between wheels, and a mismatched set produces several of those.
Different diameters. Two tires of the same nominal size from different makers, or a new tire next to a worn one, can have slightly different overall diameters. On the same axle, one turns at a different rate from the other.
Different construction. Tires stiffen and change shape with age, and two tires built differently respond differently over bumps and at speed.
Old tires that have sat. A tire on a vehicle that was parked for months can develop a set where it rested, and it may not fully recover.
Start with a look at the set
Before booking a balance for a vibration on a vehicle like this, look at the four tires. Read the brand and size on each sidewall. Check the four-digit date code on the sidewall: the last four digits are the week and year the tire was made. Compare the tread depth across the axle.
If the tires on an axle do not match, mention it when you book. The answer may be a balance, a pair of matching tires on one axle, or both. On four-wheel drive and all-wheel drive vehicles, the manufacturer may also specify how closely the tires must match, and the owner's manual says so.
When it really is balance
New fittings, a tire repair, a lost weight, and a shake at a particular speed on a matched set are all reasons to balance. The national tire and wheel balancing page covers when to ask for it. A pull is alignment, and a hum that rises with speed can be suspension, both here.
Other stores nearby
Osage Beach and Springfield also balance tires and wheels.
About this store
The Kansas City store carries all nine Purcell tire categories and is managed by Richard Kerber.
See the national tire and wheel balancing page for all 51 locations.