What Causes Steering Wheel Shaking at 120 km/h on the Highway?
3 Answers
Steering wheel shaking at 120 km/h on the highway can be caused by: 1. Force feedback effect; 2. Issues with the vehicle's tires; 3. Front wheel rim deformation or unequal number of tire bolts; 4. Loose installation of transmission system components; 5. Bent drive shaft, power imbalance, or front axle deformation; 6. Shock absorber malfunction. Steering wheels can be categorized into single-spoke, double-spoke, triple-spoke, and four-spoke steering wheels, and their function is to convert the force applied by the driver on the edge of the steering wheel into torque, which is then transmitted to the steering shaft. The correct method for operating a steering wheel is: 1. Place both hands with appropriate force at the 9 o'clock and 3 o'clock positions on the steering wheel; 2. Naturally grip the wheel with four fingers and extend the thumbs naturally along the edge of the steering wheel.
Recently, when I was driving on the highway at 120 km/h, the steering wheel shook violently, which really scared me. After looking into it, I found that the most common cause is improper tire dynamic balance—either the lead weights inside the tire fell off or weren’t placed correctly, causing imbalance at high speeds. Another possibility is wheel rim deformation, where hitting a pothole or something similar can warp it. Uneven tire wear or low tire pressure can also cause this. This issue is no small matter; leaving it unfixed for a long time can accelerate wear on other components, like the suspension system. I recommend going to a professional shop for an inspection—getting the dynamic balance fixed only costs a few dozen bucks, so don’t delay. Also, make a habit of checking your tire condition before driving. Safety first, right?
As a frequent long-distance driver, I've encountered steering wheel vibrations at high speeds several times. The main cause is usually tire imbalance issues, where the lead weights shift, causing unstable rotation. It could also be due to damaged rims or deformed tires, which become noticeably problematic at high speeds. Loose suspension links or worn ball joints can also easily cause vibrations. I recommend first checking the tire pressure and inflating them immediately if it's too low. If the issue persists, it's best to take the car to a repair shop for a comprehensive inspection to prevent minor problems from escalating. Regular tire maintenance is crucial; checking the balance every six months can prevent many potential issues.
