Tire Cupping Repair Service Costs
Minor Cupping
Typically requires 1-1.5 hours of service
Estimated cost: $125-$187.50
Includes tire rotation, balance, and basic alignment check
Moderate Cupping
Typically requires 2-2.5 hours of service
Estimated cost: $250-$312.50
Includes tire rotation, balance, full alignment service, and suspension inspection
Severe Cupping
Typically requires 3-4 hours of service
Estimated cost: $375-$500
Includes tire rotation, balance, full alignment service, comprehensive suspension inspection, and potential suspension component replacement
Note: These are estimated costs based on our standard labor rate of $125/hour. Additional parts or components needed for repair will be quoted separately. The final cost may vary depending on your vehicle's specific needs and condition.
Important:In some cases of severe cupping, tire replacement may be necessary if the wear pattern is too deep to be corrected through repairs alone.
Repairing Tire Cupping: Step-by-Step Procedure
Tire cupping (also known as scalloping or tire wear) requires a systematic approach to repair. Here's the typical procedure our technicians follow:
1. Diagnostic Inspection
Initial Steps:
- Visual inspection of all four tires
- Measurement of tread depth at multiple points
- Inspection of suspension components
- Check for wheel balance issues
2. Address Underlying Issues
Before replacing tires, we must fix the root cause:
- Suspension Problems:Replace worn shock absorbers or struts
- Balance Issues:Perform wheel balancing
- Alignment Problems:Complete wheel alignment service
3. Tire Replacement
If cupping is severe, tire replacement is often necessary:
- Remove damaged tires
- Install new tires
- Balance new tires
- Check air pressure
4. Preventive Measures
To prevent future cupping:
- Regular tire rotation every 5,000-7,000 miles
- Maintain proper tire pressure
- Schedule regular wheel alignments
- Regular suspension system inspections
Note: The exact repair procedure may vary depending on the severity of cupping and the specific vehicle model. Our technicians will provide a detailed assessment and recommendation for your specific situation.
Important:Driving on severely cupped tires can be dangerous and may lead to reduced vehicle control. If you notice unusual tire wear patterns, schedule an inspection immediately.
Understanding Tire Cupping: Causes and Effects

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Common Signs and Symptoms of Tire Cupping: Identifying Uneven Tire Wear Patterns
Understanding Tire Cupping: Signs of Failure and Maintenance Guide
Signs of Tire Cupping
Visual Indicators:
- Diagonal scalloped or scoop-shaped dips around the tire's circumference
- Uneven wear pattern that's noticeable both visually and by touch
- Alternating high and low spots on the tire tread
Performance Indicators:
- Vibration in the steering wheel or throughout the vehicle
- Unusual humming or thumping noise while driving
- Decreased ride comfort and increased road noise
Typical Service Schedule to Prevent Cupping
Every 5,000-8,000 miles:
- Tire rotation
- Tire pressure check and adjustment
- Visual inspection for early signs of cupping
Every 15,000-20,000 miles:
- Wheel balancing
- Suspension component inspection
- Wheel alignment check
Additional Maintenance:
- Shock absorbers/struts replacement every 50,000 miles or when showing signs of wear
- Immediate inspection if experiencing any vibration or unusual tire wear
- Regular brake system inspection to ensure even braking
Note: Service intervals may vary based on vehicle make, model, and driving conditions. Always consult your vehicle's owner's manual for specific recommendations.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.