Balanced Wheels

[jonbrooklyn]

I changed a flat tire over the weekend, and I noticed in the owner's manual that it says the aluminum wheels must be properly balanced with special BMW weights.

The old tire had a slow leak. I put it in the trunk, and was thrilled to find a fully-inflated replica of the other 4 wheels (no donuts!!) ready to go.

My question is, I don't think I can get to the dealer soon to have the wheels balanced. Also I noticed when I took the flat off, some oil or lubricant of some kind spilled out. Am I doing any harm to my "new" car by having to wait to get it professionally balanced? And what exactly is wheel balancing?

Thanks for all your help on this forum.

 

[Kirby]

I would assume that the spare was balanced so there's nothing to worry about. The flat should be balanced after being repaired. Any reputable tire shop can balance the wheel, I never heard of BMW exclusive wheel weights.

The rim and tire do not have perfect weight distribution. In other words, due to normal manufacturing imperfections, one side of the tire/rim is has slightly more (or less) mass, such as slightly thicker rubber. The wheel weight counter balances that lopsided mass so the tire spins smoothly, no vibrations or noise.

 

[jonbrooklyn]

I see. I appreciate it. I understand the whole balance thing now. I'm a real newbie... about cars in general, I'm afraid.

I thought it was something you had to do every time you changed a tire. Appreciate your response. Thanks for setting me straight.

 

[Evermay]

Not everytime you change a flat but everytime you buy a new tire or wheel.Also from time to time the weights that they use to balance the wheels may fall off.