Why does the steering wheel shake when braking at 120 km/h on the highway?
3 Answers
The reason for steering wheel shaking when braking at 120 km/h on the highway may be due to a malfunction in the transmission system or uneven wear of the brake discs. When driving at 120 km/h on the highway, the steering wheel shaking during braking could indicate an issue with the car's transmission system. It is advisable to check for rust or looseness in components such as the tie rod and tie rod end. Here is additional information: 1. Shaking: When braking at a certain speed, the left and right wheels on the same axle may experience uneven braking torque, causing them to brake and release alternately. 2. Solution: If the uneven braking torque becomes significant, it can cause the wheels to roll at different speeds, leading to side-to-side oscillation that is transmitted to the steering wheel. There are two solutions for uneven brake disc wear: one is to resurface the brake discs, and the other is to replace them.
That day when I was driving at 120 km/h on the highway and stepped on the brakes, the steering wheel shook, which really scared me. Later, my car-savvy friend said it's most likely an issue with the brake discs. Prolonged braking causes the disc surface to heat up and deform, making it uneven. When you hit the brakes, the wheel wobbles and transmits it to the steering wheel. It could also be uneven wear on the brake pads or improper tire balancing, which becomes more noticeable at high speeds on the highway. I suggest you find a repair shop as soon as possible to check the thickness and wear of the discs and pads, and have the mechanic test the tire balance. Don’t delay—if something goes wrong on the highway, it’s too dangerous. The repair won’t cost much, and safety comes first.
I think steering wheel vibration during high-speed braking at 120 km/h is quite common, and there could be multiple reasons. I've studied some automotive knowledge. During high-speed braking, the force is significant, and if the brake discs are warped or corroded, it's easy for vibrations to transfer to the steering wheel. Additionally, uneven wear on brake pads, misaligned or severely worn tires can also cause issues. I suggest starting with simple checks, like looking for grooves on the brake discs or checking if tire wear is symmetrical. Remember, regular maintenance can prevent these problems. High-speed driving safety is not something to take lightly—fixing issues early saves money and hassle.
