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Steering Wheel Shakes At Speed

A steering wheel that vibrates at certain speeds usually means a wheel is out of balance; damaged tyres, bent rims or worn steering parts are other causes.

High risk

Have it checked promptly. A damaged tyre or loose wheel can be dangerous.

Short answer · Why does my steering wheel shake at speed?

Most often a front wheel is out of balance, typically noticeable between about 80 and 120 km/h. A bulge in a tyre, a bent rim after a pothole, or worn steering and suspension parts can cause it too. Check the tyres visually and have the wheels balanced.

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Safe checks you can do

  1. Look at the tyresCheck for bulges, cuts and uneven wear.A bulge in the sidewall means do not drive at speed.
  2. Check tyre pressuresSet them to the values on the door frame or fuel flap.
  3. Check wheel nutsAfter a wheel change, have the torque checked.

Questions that narrow it down

  1. Does it shake only at certain speeds?Typical for wheel balance.
  2. Does it shake when braking?Points to brake discs.
  3. Did it start after hitting a pothole?Bent rim or tyre damage.

Possible causes

Listed without ranking. Use the questions above to see which ones fit your car.

  1. Unbalanced wheelLost balance weight.
  2. Tyre damageBulge or separated belt.
  3. Bent rimAfter a pothole or kerb.
  4. Worn steering or suspension partsTrack rod ends, ball joints.

Questions about Steering Wheel Shakes At Speed

How often should wheels be balanced?

When new tyres are fitted and whenever a vibration appears.

Is wheel alignment the same as balancing?

No. Alignment sets the wheel angles; balancing removes vibration.