Got New Tires And Car Shakes

Got New Tires and Car Shakes? Here's What Could Be Wrong

Meta Description: Experiencing car shakes after getting new tires? This comprehensive guide explores common causes, from improper balancing and alignment to more serious issues, helping you diagnose and fix the problem.

Getting new tires should improve your driving experience, not make it worse. A shaking car after a new tire installation is a common problem, but it's frustrating and potentially dangerous. This article will explore the various reasons why your car might be shaking after getting new tires, and guide you through troubleshooting steps to get back on the road smoothly.

Common Causes of Car Shakes After New Tire Installation

Several factors can contribute to post-tire-installation shakes. Let's break down the most frequent culprits:

• Wheel Balancing Issues: This is the most likely culprit. Even a slight imbalance in a wheel can cause significant vibrations, especially at higher speeds. New tires need to be properly balanced to ensure even weight distribution around the wheel. Improper balancing is often the result of human error during the installation process.

• Wheel Alignment Problems: Incorrect wheel alignment can lead to uneven tire wear and vibrations. If your alignment was off before the tire change, or if the installation process somehow affected the alignment, it can cause your car to shake. Symptoms might include pulling to one side while driving.

• Tire Pressure Imbalance: While less likely to cause a severe shake, inconsistent tire pressure between tires can affect handling and contribute to slight vibrations. Check your tire pressure using a reliable gauge and inflate to the manufacturer's recommended PSI (pounds per square inch), typically found in your owner's manual or on a sticker inside the driver's side doorjamb.

• Damaged or Worn Suspension Components: While less directly related to the tire change itself, worn-out suspension parts, like ball joints, tie rod ends, or struts, can exacerbate vibrations. If these components are already worn, the new tires might highlight the existing problem.

• Damaged Tires: Although less common with brand-new tires, there's a slight chance a tire might be damaged during installation or shipping. A damaged tire can lead to significant vibrations and handling issues. Inspect the tires carefully for any bulges, cuts, or other irregularities.

Troubleshooting Steps: Diagnosing the Shake

If your car shakes after getting new tires, here's a step-by-step approach to identify the problem:

1. Check Tire Pressure: Ensure all tires are inflated to the correct pressure.

2. Inspect Tires Visually: Check for any visible damage to the tires themselves.

3. Return to the Tire Shop: The simplest and often most effective step is to return to the shop where you had the tires installed. They should re-check the balance and alignment at no additional cost (if the shaking started immediately after installation).

4. Professional Alignment Check: If the tire shop's check doesn't solve the problem, get a professional wheel alignment performed by a reputable mechanic or tire specialist.

5. Suspension Inspection: If alignment and balancing don't fix the issue, a thorough suspension inspection is warranted. This might reveal worn-out components that need replacing.

Preventing Future Problems

• Choose a Reputable Tire Shop: Selecting a trustworthy tire installation shop is crucial. Research reviews and choose a shop known for quality workmanship.

• Regular Maintenance: Regular maintenance, including tire rotations and wheel alignments, helps prevent problems before they become major issues.

Getting new tires is an investment in your safety and driving experience. A shaking car after installation is a serious issue, but by systematically checking the potential causes and addressing them, you can get back to enjoying a smooth, safe ride. Remember, if you are unsure about any aspect of this process, always consult a professional mechanic.