Your steering wheel is the main connection point between you and the road. Beyond steering
the vehicle, it’s communicating important details like tire position and grip directly to your
fingertips. A vibrating steering wheel disrupts that connection. Suddenly a smooth and enjoyable
drive becomes stressful as you wonder what’s gone wrong.
Well, you've come to the right place. Here, your Tinker Experts will break down the most
common causes of steering wheel vibrations and how to recognize them. Understanding these
signs are the first step to addressing the issue and preventing bigger problems down the road.
Unbalanced Tires and Wheels
One of the most common causes of a vibrating steering wheel is an unbalanced wheel and tire
assembly. When you get new tires, small weights are added around the perimeter of the wheel
to ensure its weight is evenly distributed. This keeps each tire and wheel balanced as it rotates,
generating a smooth ride.
Over time, though, those weights can shift or fall off, throwing off the equilibrium. When this
happens, you’ll often feel a shake in the steering wheel, especially if one of the front wheels is
the culprit. A good tire shop can rebalance your wheels and also tell you if there's a more
significant issue to blame, such as a bent wheel or flat spotted tires.
Hitting a big pothole can bend a wheel, especially on cars with low profile tires, and parking your
car for long periods of time (months or years) can flat spot your tires. Both will cause a steering
vibration as you drive and require replacing the offending parts.
Warped Brake Rotors
Does your steering wheel shake whenever you hit the brakes? If so, the problem is probably
warped brake rotors. Brake rotors are the discs at each wheel that the brake pads squeeze to
slow down the car. They need to be flat and smooth so the pads can grip them evenly.
With use, that smooth surface can degrade and/or develop a buildup of brake pad material.
When this happens, the rotor’s surface becomes uneven or “warped,” causing the steering
wheel to wiggle whenever you apply the brakes. Such vibrations are particularly noticeable at
higher speeds and under hard braking.
Addressing the issue promptly is not just about getting rid of an irritating feeling. It is important
for safety as warped rotors also reduce braking performance. In most cases, the solution is to
resurface the rotors or to replace them with a fresh set.
Loose Lug Nuts
Lug nuts hold the wheels and tires onto the car, and if they’re not tightened properly, the wheels
can begin to wobble, causing a vibration in the steering wheel. This issue is not as common, but
it does happen, typically just after the car has had a tire change or other wheel service.
Again, loose lug nuts are another because that is more than just a nuisance, they're dangerous. If
the lugs get too loose, the wheel could fall off while you’re driving, leading to a serious crash.
If you suspect loose lug nuts, use a torque wrench and tighten them to the proper torque spec
right away. Your owner's manual should provide the exact torque specs for your car.
Worn Suspension Parts
Your car’s suspension system is designed to keep the ride controlled and smooth. But as parts
of the suspension start to wear out, it can struggle to keep the wheels steady. This may send
vibrations through the steering wheel, especially when you're turning or driving over rough
pavement.
If you notice vibrations in the steering wheel along with clunking noises over bumps, it’s time to
check your suspension for loose or worn-out parts. Pay particular attention to the front end,
including the bushings, shocks, ball joints and tie rods. They're the most likely to affect the
steering.
Wheel Bearing Failure
Are your steering wheel vibrations accompanied by a grinding or humming noise when turning
or driving at higher speeds? If so, the problem could be a failing wheel bearing.
Wheel bearings help your tires and wheels spin smoothly with minimal friction. When they wear
out, the wheels can start to wobble, sending vibrations through the steering wheel.
It’s important to address any signs of wheel bearing failure as soon as you notice them. If the
bearing fails completely, the wheel could lock up or come off, causing a serious safety hazard.
Drive Shaft or Axle Problems
Your car’s drive shafts and axles transmit the engine’s power to the wheels and tires. When all
is well, this transfer happens seamlessly. But like most drivetrain components, they eventually
wear out. They can also be damaged by impacts with potholes or road debris.
Worn or damaged drive shafts and axles no longer rotate smoothly, which can cause steering
wheel vibrations, especially on a front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive vehicles. So if you’ve
inspected everything else and turned up empty-handed, don’t overlook these critical parts.
Still have questions? Speak to one of our Tinker Experts today!
