Tires: 2008 Solara test drive - tire issues, 2008 toyota solara, toyota solara

Question
Hi Barry -  I test drove a 2008 Toyota Solara with 36 miles on it. I felt a wobbling/swaying sensation driving at a slow speed in their parking lot.  This could also be felt to a lesser extent on the main road which was rough,which could have masked the wobbling. It was much more noticeable when sitting in the drivers seat vs. the passenger seat. I could feel this through the seat and it didn't seem to be coming from the front of the car. I hit the brakes hard and there was no pulling.  The steering wheel doesn't shake or vibrate at any time.   The manager said that the car was on the lot since July and that there could be a 'flat area' of air in the tire(s)because of all the time sitting on the lot (something to that effect) which could be causing this.  Does something like this happen to tires when a car is not driven?  Does this sound like it could be a tire issue?  It will be tough to trust the dealer who is selling the car.  Thanks!

Answer
JP,

I think the vehicle dealer has accurately described the situation.

Tires will flat spot if not driven - and when the vehicle is operated, the flat spot will work itself out.  The longer the vehicle has not been moved, the more difficult it is to remove the flat spot.  Sometimes it takes so long that the flat spot is considered permanent.

If driving the vehicle a short distance and the flat spot can not be felt at speed, then it is likely the flat spot will work itself out and eventually it won't be felt at slow speed.