Why does the steering wheel wobble left and right without pulling to one side?
2 Answers
The steering wheel wobbles left and right without pulling to one side because there is relative rotational displacement between the steering wheel and the steering column. This can be resolved by adjusting the relative rotational displacement between them. Typically, the steering wheel is connected to the steering shaft via splines, and its function is to convert the force applied by the driver on the steering wheel's edge into torque, which is then transmitted to the steering shaft. Using a larger-diameter steering wheel reduces the hand force required from the driver during steering. The steering intermediate shaft serves as a connecting component between the steering gear and the steering shaft, facilitating the standardization of steering gears, compensating for manufacturing and installation errors, and optimizing the installation of the steering gear and steering wheel in the vehicle.
I've been driving for decades and have encountered the strange phenomenon where the steering doesn't shake but veers left and right unpredictably. Most of the time, it's a tire issue, such as uneven tire wear or bulging, causing imbalance and steering vibration when driving. Another common cause is loose suspension components, failed shock absorbers, or worn steering rods, which can make the wheels unstable. Loose wheel hub bearings are another frequent factor, especially in older cars. If the brake discs are unbalanced, they can also cause shaking when braking. I recommend first doing a simple visual inspection of the tires—if you notice bulges or cracks, replace them immediately. Don't push through the problem, as it can easily lead to loss of control, especially at high speeds, which is extremely dangerous. Get to a repair shop as soon as possible for a wheel balancing test or a full diagnosis to ensure there are no hidden issues in the steering system.
