Why Is My Steering Wheel Shaking?
When you drive regularly, you know what feels normal while driving and what doesn’t. When your steering wheel begins to vibrate or shake at an unusual rate, this could be a sign that something is wrong with your vehicle. A shaking steering wheel may be caused by a variety of underlying issues. In this article, we’ll be going over all the causes of a vibrating steering wheel and what they mean.
Unbalanced Wheels
Driving with one or more unbalanced wheels may cause your steering wheel to shake, creating uneven driving conditions. This can be corrected by getting a routine wheel alignment.
Vehicle Needs an Alignment
The steering/suspension alignment helps ensure that the tires connect with the pavement at the proper angles. Over time, rough road conditions and other hazards can throw your car out of alignment, potentially leading to bad vibrations in your steering wheel. You may notice your vehicle pulls to either the right or left when the steering wheel is straight.
Brake Problems
If your steering wheel is shaking while braking, there is likely a problem with your brakes. The brake rotors/drums may have worn down, lost shape, or warped. Usually, you’ll feel vibrations through the steering wheel and the brake pedal as you press your foot down.
Suspension Issues
The suspension system is important because it helps keep your ride comfortable and your steering responsive. If any of these parts become worn, you might notice the ride feels rougher, the car is harder to control, or the steering wheel shakes. Worn suspension parts can also cause strong vibrations, especially when you’re driving fast on the highway.
Tire Damage
Your tires are meant to take the force of the road. Whether it’s a pothole, a curb, or debris on the road, these everyday hazards can leave your tires with bulges, cracks, or other damage. Damaged tires can throw off various components, leading to constant steering wheel vibrations regardless of speed.
Temperature and Weather Effects
When the temperature drops, the extreme cold can cause your tire pressure to drop or even lead to ice buildup on your wheels. In either scenario, you may notice the steering wheel shaking as a result. Regularly checking your tire pressure and keeping your wheels ice-free is how you keep your ride smooth and steady.
Steering & Suspension repair in Naperville
Ensuring your steering and suspension are performing at their best is vital for both the drivability and safety of your vehicle. Suspension components deal with a lot of abuse from bumps and potholes in the road, and should be inspected regularly to ensure everything is in working order.
Our team of ASE-certified technicians at Becker Service Center has the skills and experience to diagnose the issues in your steering or suspension, and repair them with high-quality service and parts! Call or schedule an appointment with us online today! Our experienced team will provide you with the premier service in Naperville and give you the peace of mind that your vehicle will be back to normal in no time!