What Causes Steering Wheel Vibration When Driving Above 100 km/h?
2 Answers
Reasons for steering wheel vibration when driving above 100 km/h: 1. It may be caused by deformation or issues with the vehicle's drivetrain. It is necessary to check whether the front wheel alignment angles and toe-in meet the requirements. If they are out of specification, they should be adjusted. Lift the front axle and test the rotation of the wheels to check the static balance of the wheels and whether the tires are excessively deformed. If deformed, they should be replaced. 2. Excessive or frequent braking may cause the brake discs and brake pads to overheat, leading to deformation when cooled, which results in steering wheel vibration. Generally, replacing the brake discs and brake pads can resolve the issue. 3. The issue may also arise from a twisted or deformed driveshaft, or a loose, dry, or rusted universal joint in the driveshaft.
I've encountered many cases of steering wheel vibration at high speeds, and the most common cause is unbalanced tire rotation. When you drive fast, the centrifugal force from the spinning tires increases. If the weight distribution isn't even, the wheels start to wobble, causing the steering wheel to shake continuously. The check is simple: just visit a repair shop for a wheel balancing test. It's usually inexpensive and takes about half an hour to complete. After that, driving at high speeds becomes much smoother. Other possible causes include deformed rims or uneven tire wear, especially if the rim gets damaged after hitting a pothole. Additionally, issues with the suspension system, such as worn shock absorbers or ball joints, can amplify vibrations at high speeds. If not repaired promptly, these may damage steering components. From my practical experience, I recommend car owners regularly check tire pressure and appearance. Preventive maintenance can save a lot of money in the long run.
