The most common causes of a steering wheel shaking while driving include:
- Tire Issues:
- Unbalanced tires cause vibrations felt in the steering wheel, especially at higher speeds.
- Uneven tire wear or improper tire inflation can contribute to shaking.
- Tire balancing every 10,000-12,000 miles is recommended to prevent this.
- Alignment Problems:
- Misaligned wheels make the tires meet the road at wrong angles, causing steering wheel vibrations.
- Wheel alignment service can usually solve this issue.
- Brake System Problems:
- Warped brake rotors often cause the steering wheel to shake when braking.
- Stuck brake calipers or issues in the brake system can also cause shaking.
- Suspension and Steering Component Issues:
- Damaged or worn tie rod ends, ball joints, or wheel bearings can cause the steering wheel to shake.
- Problems with wheel bearings usually cause shaking while turning.
- Axle Issues:
- Bent axles can also result in steering wheel vibrations.
In summary, if your steering wheel shakes while driving, it is often due to tire balance or alignment problems, brake rotor issues, or worn suspension components. Getting a tire balance and alignment check, inspecting brake rotors, and checking suspension parts are good steps to diagnose and fix the problem.
