In 2009, it looked like lead wheel weights were destined to become a tire shop memory. In August of that year, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) said it would pursue a nationwide ban on the manufacture and distribution of lead wheel weights. Yet in 2017, lead wheel weights remain legal in 42 states.

Bans on the use of lead weights, efforts to reduce vehicle weight to improve fuel economy, and the popularity of custom wheels are creating more wheel weight choices for passenger tire dealers.