Why is My Steering Wheel Shaking?

Driving with a shaky steering wheel can be anything from a mild annoyance to a potentially dangerous situation. If you’re wondering why your steering wheel is shaking, there are a number of possible reasons, the most common being improper tire alignment. Schedule an appointment at Superior Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram of Conway, and our team will provide a definitive diagnosis, handle the repairs, and get you back on the road quickly and affordably.

The Most Common Causes of a Shaking Steering Wheel

When you’re driving in Conway and your steering wheel starts to shake or vibrate, it’s only natural to wonder about the reason why. Here are the four most likely causes:

1. Misaligned Wheels or Tires.Wheels that aren’t aligned will often affect proper weight distribution, which can make certain parts of the vehicle sit lower to the ground than others. When this occurs, steering wheel shaking or vibration is not uncommon. You might also notice uneven wear in your tire tread, which can call for more frequent tire replacements. Prevent misalignments by being mindful of driving conditions and going slowly–or avoiding entirely–dangers like potholes, rough railroad tracks, and sharply uneven terrain.
2. Warped Suspension. The suspension system ensures vehicle stability by absorbing energy from the tires. A car accident, even a seemingly minor fender bender, or unusually rough terrain can warp the suspension and affect the steering column, resulting in a shaky or vibrating wheel.
3. Worn Brake Parts. Are you asking yourself, “Why is my steering wheel shaking every time I hit the brakes?” The culprit is probably not the wheel itself but the brake pads, discs, or rotors. Over time, these parts will naturally start to deteriorate, so this is typically not a problem with new vehicles. But when these parts inevitably wear down, their braking surfaces become uneven, which causes the steering wheel to shake every time the brakes are applied.
4. Bearing Issues. Damaged or inadequately lubricated bearings increase friction, and more friction can make the steering wheel shake. Bad bearings are the most likely cause if the wheel only shakes when turning.

Trust Superior Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram of Conway for All Your Auto Repair Needs

“Why is my steering wheel shaking?” It’s a question most drivers will probably ask at one point or another. Our service team at Superior Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram of Conway has the skill and experience to answer that question and perform the needed repairs. Schedule an appointment today or contact us with any questions you might have.