What causes the steering wheel to shake left and right at low speeds?
2 Answers
The reasons for the steering wheel shaking left and right at low speeds are: 1. Incorrect dynamic balance data of the four wheels, which can be checked and readjusted if necessary; 2. Worn or loose wheel bearings of the four wheels, so it is recommended to inspect and adjust or replace them if loose; 3. Bulging or uneven tread on the tires of the four wheels, causing shaking while driving; 4. Loose wheel hub bearings and severe wear of the left and right steering knuckle ball joints, leading to inaccurate front wheel alignment.
A few days ago, my car was driving slowly in the city, and the steering wheel kept wobbling left and right, which really puzzled me. Later, I had a mechanic check it out, and it turned out to be caused by front wheel imbalance. Common causes for such issues include uneven tire wear or slight deformation of the wheel rim. If you feel wobbling at low speeds, don’t take it lightly—it could be due to worn wheel bearings, soft suspension shock absorbers, or loose steering ball joints. My friend’s car had a similar issue, and it turned out to be caused by a stuck brake caliper. I recommend going to a professional repair shop for a check-up immediately. Don’t delay, as prolonged neglect can worsen component damage and even affect high-speed driving safety. Regular wheel balancing and alignment checks while driving can prevent many such troubles.
