What are the little black dots on the wheels?

[extrap]

I've had quite a few new cars and trucks but have never seen these dots. What are they? Thanks ...

 

[fjpikul]

That is the balance point for the wheel. The tires have similar spots on them when new. Match them up and then balance the tire/wheel combo.

 

[extrap]

Ah, so is the black dot on the wheel the heavy spot, and the dot on the tire the lightest spot? So when you line them up they should be almost balanced?

 

[fjpikul]

I believe so. There is an old thread about it here on the forum somewhere.

 

[gtjoey]

Yes the high or heavy spot as you call it.
gtjoey1314

 

[SYCO GT]

Just had new wheels shod and I removed the little balance black dots after I mounted the wheel and tire set.

 

[extrap]

Just had new wheels shod and I removed the little balance black dots after I mounted the wheel and tire set.

Hmm, could there be a day you wish they were still there? Or does the tire place just mount and balance without them, no big deal?

 

[fjpikul]

They come new from the factory like that. Unnecessary to use them when new tires are fitted.

 

[Nafod]

they tend to wash off if you use water.. I try to have them aligned if they are still there. But in reality, it just doesnt matter.. Maybe more lead inside the wheel.. YMMV..

 

[DanQ]

I thought it was interesting, you can use them to track if the tire is spinning on the wheel.