Tire balancing is a critical yet often overlooked aspect of tire protection. Unbalanced tires cause vibration, which leads to uneven tread wear, damaged rims, and strained suspension components. Signs of imbalance include steering wheel vibration at 50-70 mph or uneven tread (e.g., cupping or scalloping). Have tires balanced when installing new tires, after rotations, or if you notice vibration. Balancing involves adding small weights to rims to distribute weight evenly across the tire and wheel assembly. Neglecting balancing can reduce tire lifespan by 15-20% and increase fuel consumption. For vehicles with larger rims or performance tires, more frequent balancing (every 6 months) may be necessary. Pair balancing with alignment checks—misalignment and imbalance often go hand in hand. By keeping tires balanced, you ensure smooth driving, even wear, and prolonged tire life.