How do I know if wheels need balancing?

[Cogarch]

After changing to my summer tyre/wheels (Michelin Pilot) I have noticed a slight "vibrant/swishing" sound from one or more of the wheels on the motorway. There is no steering wheel vibration or any kind of vibration that I can feel. The wheel cover is securely fitted. Might one of my rear wheels be unbalanced? Or is there another possible cause?

 

[ATPMSD]

After changing to my summer tyre/wheels (Michelin Pilot) I have noticed a slight "vibrant/swishing" sound from one or more of the wheels on the motorway. There is no steering wheel vibration or any kind of vibration that I can feel. The wheel cover is securely fitted. Might one of my rear wheels be unbalanced? Or is there another possible cause?

Sounds like it could be a wheel balance issue. It is about $40 to get them balanced so that is the easiest thing to do.

 

[KenC]

After changing to my summer tyre/wheels (Michelin Pilot) I have noticed a slight "vibrant/swishing" sound from one or more of the wheels on the motorway. There is no steering wheel vibration or any kind of vibration that I can feel. The wheel cover is securely fitted. Might one of my rear wheels be unbalanced? Or is there another possible cause?

Sound? But no vibration? I'd look carefully at the tread to make sure there isn't any cupping or feathering starting. If you can't tell, maybe take your 3 to one of those tire shops that do free alignment checks. Also, how did your winter tires look?

 

[Cogarch]

Sound? But no vibration? I'd look carefully at the tread to make sure there isn't any cupping or feathering starting. If you can't tell, maybe take your 3 to one of those tire shops that do free alignment checks. Also, how did your winter tires look?

Thanks -- that's exactly the kind of advice I was looking for. I will look into it. FWIW my winter tyres were fine when I put them away (I had occasion to inspect them in detail after spending a lot of time getting the bits of gravel out of the treads!)..