Why Is My Steering Wheel Shaking?

If your commutes from Garfield Township to Interlochen have gotten a bit bumpy, you might be asking yourself, "Why is my steering wheel shaking?" A steering wheel shaking while driving can be jarring, but it's not always a sign of an emergency. In many cases, a simple alignment issue can cause a steering wheel to shake. 

If you notice your steering wheel shaking when braking, you may have other issues at play. It's important to pay attention to all the signs and symptoms you notice while driving through Kalkaska to get an accurate gauge of what's going on with your vehicle. Explore our tips below to answer, "Why is my steering wheel shaking?" once and for all!

My Steering Wheel Shakes - What's the Cause?

Whether your steering wheel is shaking while driving or your steering wheel is shaking when braking, telling family and friends, "My steering wheel shakes" is never fun. To get to the bottom of your automotive issues, review the most common causes of shaky steering wheels here:

• Unbalanced wheels: A steering wheel shaking while driving can often be caused by the improper distribution of tire weight. If the weight isn't properly dispersed when the tire is first put on, you'll feel the vehicle vibrate. This is generally more of an issue for vehicles with lightweight suspension systems and can cause problems for the shocks, struts, and other steering components if left unattended.

• Misalignment: Similar to unbalanced wheels, the positioning of the wheels is critical. If you noticed that the shaking began after you hit a pothole or another road obstruction, chances are you have a problem with your alignment. 

• Bad bearings: If your bearings are damaged or improperly lubricated, the resulting friction will cause your steering wheel to shake. It's important to note that this will only occur when the vehicle is turning. Usually, a simple cleaning of the bearings is enough to solve the problem.

• Suspension issues: If parts of the suspension system are worn or loose, your steering wheel may vibrate. The same is true if the driveshaft is imbalanced. 

• Brake issues: If you notice your steering wheel shaking when braking, the issue lies within your braking system. Worn-out brake pads, defective brake discs, and even worn shocks can cause the shaking sensation.

Visit Us at Serra Volvo Cars of Traverse City for Care!

If you're done with saying, "My steering wheel shakes!" Serra Volvo Cars of Traverse City is here to help. Our expert service and parts teams can quickly diagnose your automotive issues and get your vehicle road ready right away. When you book an appointment with us, you'll be treated to competitive prices, friendly service, and impeccable care. Experience the Serra Volvo Cars of Traverse City difference today!