Tire trouble.

[Sveivo]

I recently got some generic steel rims with all-season tires to use in the winter.

The problem is I get vibration (in the steering wheel only) pretty much at all speeds--starting at about 35 and up.

I have hubcentric rings installed and had the wheels balanced a few times. Nothing seems to make a difference. Alignment is good as well.

Is it a problem with the tires? Can I return the tires somehow or exchange them or am I screwed?

I doubt it is a problem with my car because with my old wheels everything is good.

 

[richashley]

One of the tires may have a bad belt or one of the rims may be out of round. Where did you buy them from? If you bought them retail, either condition should be covered under warranty.

 

[Sveivo]

One of the tires may have a bad belt or one of the rims may be out of round. Where did you buy them from? If you bought them retail, either condition should be covered under warranty.

Thank you for your reply.

I bought them at a local tire store (local chain). The vibration is really more like a buzz--a very high frequency vibration, if you know what I mean.

I've had a few people drive my car, and they say it might be due to a somewhat aggressive tread on the tires, and a harder compound.

Is this possible? I'm used to riding on soft bald tires, so it sort of makes sense.

 

[richashley]

Agressive tread patterns will create more noise and vibration, although the typical all-season tire is not what I'd call "agressive". The steel wheels may also increase vibration because they are heavier than alloys and may not be as true.

Why not go back to the tire store and ask them to re-check the balance and run-out of the tire and wheel assemblies?

 

[Sveivo]

Agressive tread patterns will create more noise and vibration, although the typical all-season tire is not what I'd call "agressive". The steel wheels may also increase vibration because they are heavier than alloys and may not be as true.

Why not go back to the tire store and ask them to re-check the balance and run-out of the tire and wheel assemblies?

I'm glad you brought that up. I called and inquired about excessive run-out. And the tech said that he remembered my car and that the tires were "jumping" a bit on the balancer. (boom07)

They offered to try a different set. Going in tomorrow (thumb)

Thanks for the tip (sun)

 

[big Lou]

you my just have bent wheels. its also proven that you get what you pay for. For a good price goods tires are Kumho spt or yokohamas.

 

[Sveivo]

Yo, actually I switched tires and I don't notice the buzz anymore. I got the Kumho 795 touring. I like them quite a bit!