What Causes Vehicle Vibration at High Speeds?
2 Answers
Vehicle vibration at high speeds can be caused by: 1. Improper front tire pressure (too high or too low) or tire imbalance due to repairs: The solution is to replace the tires. 2. Misaligned front wheel alignment angles or excessive toe-in: The solution is to adjust the front wheel alignment. 3. Deformed front wheel hubs or unequal number of tire bolts: The solution is to adjust the quantity to make it consistent. 4. Loose installation of drivetrain components: The solution is to tighten the parts. 5. Bent drive shaft, imbalance, or deformed front axle: The solution is to replace the drive shaft and front axle.
Last time on the highway, the steering wheel shook like a phone vibration, scaring me into pulling over at the nearest service area. The mechanic taught me a step-by-step check: first, feel the temperature of all four wheel hubs—the side that's scalding hot indicates a stuck brake caliper; if the steering wheel shakes, prioritize checking the front wheel balance, which can be fixed for just a few dozen bucks; if the whole car is shaking, it’s likely due to a bent axle or a bulging tire. Once, my wheel hubs were caked in mud, and the car shook at 110 km/h—washing it off fixed the issue instantly. This problem can range from minor to serious; overloaded trucks might shake due to loose leaf spring shackles. For safety, next time it shakes, try slowing down to 60 km/h—if it still shakes, it’s time to lift the car and inspect the chassis suspension.
