What Causes Steering Wheel Vibration at Speeds Above 80 km/h?
2 Answers
Steering wheel vibration at speeds above 80 km/h is caused by excessive clearance between the brake pads and brake discs. Here are the relevant explanations: 1. Excessive Clearance: Excessive clearance simply means the brake disc is uneven. The clearance between the brake pads and brake disc causes a slight vibration in the brake pedal when the driver applies the brakes. This vibration is then transmitted through the drivetrain and fed back to the steering wheel, giving the driver the sensation of steering wheel vibration during braking. 2. Braking Principle: The principle of braking is to convert the vehicle's kinetic energy into heat energy, which is then dissipated. This kinetic energy comes from the power provided by the engine, which requires fuel combustion to generate. Therefore, it is advisable to reasonably and appropriately reduce the duration and frequency of braking while maintaining a safe driving distance.
That day when I was driving on the highway, once the speed exceeded 80 km/h, the steering wheel started shaking violently, almost losing control, which was quite frightening. I thought it might be due to uneven road surface, but my friend said it's very likely caused by unbalanced tires—poor dynamic balance causing vibrations to transmit to the steering wheel at high speeds. Uneven tire wear or significant differences in tire pressure can also lead to this situation, so it's essential to regularly check and maintain tire pressure at the recommended values. Additionally, if brake discs warp after overheating or distort during sudden braking, they may also cause shaking at high speeds. Problems with the suspension system should not be ignored either; if ball joints or bushings are worn, vibrations can be directly transmitted. For safety reasons, I recommend slowing down and pulling over immediately upon noticing any shaking, then heading to a professional repair shop for a comprehensive tire balance and four-wheel alignment check—don’t delay.
