Analysis of Vibration: Tires
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Mercury Mariner and 2006 Ford Escape. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
WARNING:
Do not balance the wheels and tires while they are mounted on the vehicle. Possible tire disintegration/rear drive unit (RDU)/halfshaft failure could result, causing personal injury/extensive component damage. Use an off-vehicle wheel and tire balancer only. Failure to follow these instructions may result in personal injury.
Most vibration in the rear of the vehicle is caused by tires.
Vibration is a concern with modern, high-mileage tires if they are not "true," both radially and laterally. They are more susceptible to vibration around the limits of the radial and lateral runout of the tire and wheel assembly. They also require more accurate balancing. Wheel and tire runout checks, truing and balancing are normally done before RDU inspection. Refer to WHEELS & TIRES .