Tire balance

[digital rules]

Is a slightly out of balance tire detrimental to fuel economy? Didn't notice any vibration till I recently rotated tires from back to front. Not sure if worth the trouble to have the 2 front tires balanced?

Thanks!!

[gone-ot]

Short answer: Yes, but your teeth (and tire wear) will complain long before hard & fast numbers will show up.

[MetroMPG]

Earlier discussion, FYI: http://ecomodder.com/forum/showthrea...omy-27886.html

Includes some back of the envelope calcs.

[Cobb]

Walmart charges 9 bucks to balance a tire if you bring it on.

Not a bad idea to check it for signs of bulges as that could be a broken belt or some internal damage to the tire. Also look for a missing wheel weight. Ive slung a few in my day as well.