If you notice that you have a shaky steering wheel, or that it is vibrating, or pulling off to one side when you accelerate, that’s a sure sign that something is wrong. Usually a little vibration at high speeds isn’t too big of an issue, but like most issues with cars, it can become serious if it’s ignored for an extended period of time.
Don’t allow a minor problem to become a major issue. If you are noticing something off with your vehicle, it’s trying to tell you something. Give it the attention it needs. In order to diagnose a shaky or off center steering while, this article will provide a list of potential problems.
What Is Causing My Steering Wheel To Vibrate?
Usually the issue starts off small, barely noticeable, even. Oftentimes the vibrations will only manifest when you are accelerating or driving at high speeds. In other instances you may notice a slight pull to the right or left when you engage the brakes. It might have all started after you bumped into a curb or hit a pothole in the road. If ignored, that tiny vibration could become exacerbated until it becomes a tremendous shake. If that happens, you’re definitely going to be thinking about getting it fixed, but in order to do that, you need to know what the problem is. Here a few of the likely culprits:
- Bumpy roads: First, you’ll want to consider if the problem is even being caused by your vehicle at all. If you live somewhere out in the wild west where road upkeep is minimal, or the roads are mostly unpaved, the problem might just be due to the roads you’re traveling on. Bumps and divots in the road are going to transfer up the steering column and cause the steering wheel to jolt around a bit. If your issue is resolved once you find a smooth section of road, then never fear! It’s likely your problem was just being caused by a bit of rough road.
- Improper alignment: The alignment of your wheels in revelation to the rest of your vehicle plays a role in how smooth your steering experience is going to be. If your alignment isn’t straight it can cause the steering wheel to tug in one direction or the other, especially when you tap on the brakes suddenly.
- Loose lugnuts: Loose lugnuts can cause a bumpy ride. It may be that the lugnuts weren’t tightened properly the last time you had your tires rotated, or it may be that driving over some excessively rough road caused them to shake loose. In either case, if your lugnuts are not properly tightened then your wheel is going to wobble all over the place. Needless to say, some of this wobble is going to translate over to the steering wheel.
- Warped rotors: If you are experiencing significant shaking, vibration, or wobbling especially when you engage the brakes, the problem is most likely due to your brake rotors. The rotors can become warped when exposed to high heat as the result of excess braking on a steep grade. In some cases the surface of the rotors can be refinished by a mechanics garage, but depending on the severity of the damage, they may need to be replaced all together.
Is It Safe To Drive With A Shaky Steering Wheel?
Shaking or vibration of the steering wheel at high speeds is likely to give you a bit of a fright! And rightfully so, you certainly don’t want to lose your grip and lose control of the vehicle. However, in most cases, a slight vibration is not a big deal. Of course, it depends on the cause of the issue. Problems with the brakes are going to be more serious than issues with your alignment. Even so, a shaky or vibrating steering wheel should not be ignored! It’s best to get to the root of the issue and get it fixed promptly. If you notice a shake, vibration, or a steering wheel that is pulling the right or the left, call Lakeside Mobile Mechanic! We can come to you, diagnose the issue, and fix it right in your driveway!