Have you ever experienced your steering wheel moving on its own? The subtle vibrating and shaking that’s not usual in your manual car. If you don’t have a self-driving car, a shaking steering wheel is often the sign of an underlying issue in the vehicle. Steering wheel shakes are often related to tyres or brakes; therefore, it’s best to pay heed to these vibrations so that you can identify any underlying issues in your car before they lead to severe damage.
Do you want to know what does it mean when your steering wheel shakes? Read on to know in detail.
MAJOR REASONS WHY YOUR STEERING WHEEL SHAKES
Discussed in detail are some of the major causes when the steering wheel shakes at low speeds or while accelerating, braking and more.
DAMAGED BRAKE ROTORS
Does your steering wheel shake at low speeds? Or does it vibrate when you press the brakes? A major reason why this happens is due to warped brake rotors. The brake rotors are smooth and flat surfaces on which the brake pads press to slow or stop the movement of your vehicle. The constant onset of pressure without proper maintenance or replacements can bend the rotors.
As a result, the brake pads press into an uneven surface when braking, causing the steering wheel to shake. You can always rectify the error by replacing the brake rotors.
ISSUES WITH TYRE ALIGNMENT
The vehicle’s suspension system aligns the tyres such that they evenly meet the road’s surface. However, due to road turbulence, rough driving, and other hazards, this alignment can get disturbed over time. When this happens, one or more wheels rest at a skewed angle and cause the steering wheel to shake or vibrate when the car moves.
Besides steering wheel vibration, the disordered car wheel alignment causes accelerated wear on the tyres. Fortunately, you can get a quick wheel alignment service to address the issue. In case you are unsure of whether or not you need the service, get your vehicle checked.
UNBALANCED TYRES
All tyres are meant to rotate at the same speed while kept at a perfect balance. With certain changes such as aggressive driving, poor road conditions, rough driving patterns and inflation differences, tyres tend to become unbalanced. As a result of this change, the unsteady tyres impact the suspension and axle that leads to steering wheel shakes.
The problem can be conveniently fixed with a routine tyre balancing service. Tyre balance should be checked after every 16,000 to 19,000 km.
STUCK BRAKE CALIPER
Another probable cause of shaking steering wheel is stuck brake callipers. For those who don’t know, brake callipers hold your brake pads and lower them each time you decelerate or stop your vehicle. Although rare, brake callipers tend to become seized, also called “sticky” or “stuck.” Sticky brake callipers cause handling trouble, resulting in a feeling of shaking or pulling of the steering wheel. You are likely to notice it when your drive more than when you press the brake.
ISSUES WITH SUSPENSION SYSTEM
The car suspension system is a network connecting different systems of the car to its tyres, including shock absorbers, coils/springs, joints, bushings, and more. If any of these components encounter an issue, the vehicle’s internal handling is dismayed. That is why you may find your steering wheel shaking.
Besides, if your car is experiencing repetitive suspension issues, it’s best to consider another car, instead of spending on frequent repairs. You may opt to buy used cars in the UAE, but make sure you test drive the second-hand vehicle and ensure its parts are properly working.
HOW TO DIAGNOSE STEERING WHEEL SHAKES?
A shaking steering wheel is merely a surface symptom of a range of mechanical problems that are internally shaking the entire vehicle. The problem can be with the spark, air introduction and fuel delivery systems among others. In any case, if you are still uncertain about the reasons why your steering wheel is shaking, it’s best to visit an auto service centre.
Although you can better devise the course of action by evaluating the specific problem, the general rule of thumb is that when your steering wheel shakes intermittently, seek immediate help. There may be a severe problem threatening the life of your vehicle that could be easily resolved. Since now you know the most common causes of car steering wheel shakes and vibrations, it’s best to take timely proactive measures.
Stay tuned to UAE’s top auto blog for more detailed information on different vehicle parts, their working and more.
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