Sponsored by The Tire Rack

[dbyrd]

I cupped my front passenger tire at the track this weekend. I had it rebalanced, but it's wobbling/vibrating between 25-50 mph. The tire's relatively new.

Can I drive through this or do I just need to buy a new tire?

Thanks,
-Daniel

[Amirsm3]

Originally Posted by dbyrd

I cupped my front passenger tire at the track this weekend. I had it rebalanced, but it's wobbling/vibrating between 25-50 mph. The tire's relatively new.

Can I drive through this or do I just need to buy a new tire?

Thanks,
-Daniel

Did you get them through Discount Tire/Tire Rack? Maybe they can help you out with the warranty that's on them. I know you're at the track, but it doesn't hurt to try.

How bad is the wobbling/vibration? If it becomes unbearable, I would just get a new front pair and call it a day.

[smmmurf]

If you have worn off a significant amount of tread from the outside of the tire, the most prudent solution would be to simply replace one tire as you suggested. Fortunately they're relatively new and if you hammered just one tire, the tire on the opposite corner should be usable.

Generally, mileage warranties do not apply to irregular wear that is not the fault of the tire manufacturer.

[dbyrd]

Looks like I'll be replacing the tire - thanks for your feedback, guys.

[dbyrd]

After replacing both front tires, I'm still experiencing a vibration with a slight whop whop sound. I pulled the rear spacers just to be sure and I'm still hearing it. I now think it may be the front wheel bearings - I'm at 96k miles. At least I kept the old tires that may not be the culprit.

[smmmurf]

Originally Posted by dbyrd

After replacing both front tires, I'm still experiencing a vibration with a slight whop whop sound. I pulled the rear spacers just to be sure and I'm still hearing it. I now think it may be the front wheel bearings - I'm at 96k miles. At least I kept the old tires that may not be the culprit.

Positive it's not just when you are on the brakes? Pad deposits on rotors (i.e. from running street pads on the track) make a whoop whoop sound and vibrate. Could be this in conjunction with a caliper issue.

It's very unlikely both wheel bearings failed at the same time- probably just one. you can jack up the front of your car and see if there is any play in the hub.

[dbyrd]

Definitely not the brakes, but I can't feel any play or resistance when I jack up and spin the wheel. Taking it into my local mechanic tomorrow. I'm pissed that I spent $550 on tires that I didn't need, but I'll use them.

Thanks for the advice, folks.