Wheel And Tire Diagnosis

Wheel/tire noise, vibration and harshness concerns are directly related to vehicle speed and are not generally affected by acceleration, coasting or deceleration. Also, out-of-balance wheel and tires can vibrate at more than one speed. A vibration that is affected by the engine rpm, or is eliminated by placing the transmission in Neutral is not related to the tire and wheel. As a general rule, tire and wheel vibrations felt in the steering wheel are related to the front tire and wheel assemblies. Vibrations felt in the seat or floor are related to the rear tire and wheel assemblies. This can initially isolate a concern to the front or rear.

Careful attention must be paid to the tire and wheels. There are several symptoms that can be caused by damaged or worn tire and wheel. Perform a careful visual inspection of the tires and wheel assemblies. Spin the tires slowly and watch for signs of lateral or radial runout. Refer to the tire wear chart to determine the tire wear conditions and actions

Wheel and tire diagnosis
Rapid wear at the center	Rapid wear at both shoulders	Wear at one shoulder
Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.	Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.	Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
Center-tread down to fabric due to excessively over inflated tires Lack of rotation Excessive toe on drive wheels Heavy acceleration on drive	Under-inflated tires Worn suspension components Excessive cornering speeds Lack of rotation	Toe adjustment out of specification Camber out of specification Damaged strut Damaged lower arm
Partial wear	Feathered edge	Wear pattern
Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.	Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.	Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
Damaged or worn brake discs Sudden excessive braking	Toe adjustment out of specification Damaged or worn tie rods Damaged knuckle	Toe adjustment out of specification Lack of rotation Damaged suspension component