When do the most common out-of-balance conditions occur?

Out-of-balance conditions in a vehicle are most commonly associated with braking or accelerating. This is because when a vehicle accelerates, weight shifts to the rear, and when it brakes, weight shifts to the front. These shifts can cause the vehicle to become less stable, especially if there are existing issues with tire balance or alignment.

During acceleration, the rear tires bear more load, which can exacerbate any imbalance, while braking shifts weight forward, impacting the front tires. This dynamic is particularly critical because an out-of-balance vehicle can lead to increased wear on tires, reduced handling control, and even potential hazards like skidding.

While cruising, turning left, or changing lanes can also affect vehicle stability, the most pronounced out-of-balance conditions typically arise during the more extreme changes in speed associated with acceleration and braking. This is when the forces acting on the vehicle are most variable and can highlight or worsen any imbalances.