Vibrations and shimmies

• Hub centricity - Wheels are centered by the hub, the snout in the center between the studs. If the wheel doesn't fit snugly onto this snout, it can be slightly off center on the hub. Even 10ths of a millimeter can cause problems with vibration. Wheels can be made "hub-centric" with the use of high-tolerance hub-rings that shim up the hole in the wheel to fit snugly on the hub.

• "Road force" balancing - Tires that are out of balance will cause vibrations at certain speeds (wave harmonics). We "Road Force" balance tires to insure a smooth ride. Road Force balancing simulates the weight of the car on the wheel and measures the high and low spots and stiff and soft spots of the tire to help us refine the placement of the tire on the wheel. It also measures the balance front-to-back as well as the circumference to minimize this vibration.
  

Pulling (right or left)

• Pulling (right or left) - This can be caused by at least three different problems:

• Mismatched tires - different tread patterns will track differently. It's a good idea to keep the same model tire on all four wheels.

• Wrong tires for the car - some vehicles are extremely sensitive to certain tread styles or radial biases. Only someone experienced with your vehicle can tell you what has had problems in the past.

Alignment

• Alignment - Misaligned wheels will not only pull but will wear your tires out prematurely. Have the alignment checked by a shop with the latest technology and skilled personnel. Alignments are generally recommended at 15,000 mile intervals or after purchasing tires, as well as after any events such as curb or pothole impacts. You'll know your vehicle needs an alignment if you notice it pulling to the left or right while driving. Alignments cannot be performed at home - be sure to take your vehicle to a trusted mechanic or alignment specialist who has the proper equipment and training to work on your vehicle.