A steering wheel that shakes is annoying and it is your car trying to tell you something. The trick to diagnosing it is paying attention to when the shake happens.
Shakes at highway speed
If the wheel shimmies as you reach 55 to 70 mph and smooths out above or below, the most likely cause is an out of balance wheel or tire. A wheel balance is cheap and fixes it in most cases. Worn or unevenly worn tires can do the same thing.
Shakes only when braking
If the shake shows up when you press the brake pedal, the usual cause is warped brake discs. The uneven surface pushes the pads in and out, and you feel it in the wheel. This calls for a brake inspection.
Shakes at all speeds
A constant vibration that gets worse with speed can mean a bent wheel, a damaged tire, or a worn suspension or steering part such as a tie rod or ball joint. This one is worth a proper inspection because it can affect control.
Frequently asked questions
Can bad wheel alignment cause shaking?
Alignment mostly causes pulling and uneven tire wear, but the resulting uneven wear can then cause a vibration.
Is it safe to drive with a shaking wheel?
A mild balance issue is not dangerous, but a shake from brakes or suspension should be checked quickly.
Because tires are the most common cause, start there. Our tire guides can help you choose a quality replacement.
