If you notice that something is off with your steering, this is usually a good indication that there is something wrong with your car. If you are experiencing shaking or locking in your steering wheel, don’t ignore it. This can be an indicator that something serious is happening to your car.
There are a few explanations as to why you may be experiencing shaking or locking in your steering wheel. Here are some of the more common reasons:
Unbalanced Wheels
Vibrations are one of the main symptoms of unbalanced tires. The shaking usually tends to start at your steering wheel, and then travel throughout the car. As you increase your speed, you’ll often be able to feel the vibrations getting stronger. At first glance, you usually are not able to see that your tires are unbalanced. However, you can look for signs, such as uneven tread wear or bent rims, indicating an imbalance in the wheels.
For reference, your tires should be rotated about every 7,000 miles, depending on the make and model of your car. So, if you think that there is a chance that your tires could need a rotation, contact your local mechanic.
Problems with Your Brakes
If you notice that your vehicle rocks or bounces with sharp braking or your steering wheel begins to shake while you’re slowing down, there is a chance that you may have a problem with your brakes. Worn brake pads, loose connections, worn shocks, or a bad brake disc can all result in a shaking steering wheel. If you feel like something is off with your car, you’re probably right. Self-diagnosing your brake problems can save you and your passengers from unnecessary risks.
If you recognize an unusual behavior with your brakes, take your car to a professional immediately.
Suspension Problems in your Car
Worn steering or suspension parts can affect your vehicle’s control and stability and cause your steering wheel to vibrate. If your steering wheel is noticeably harder to control, that’s a pretty good sign that something is wrong with your suspension. Start by checking the upper and lower ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings.
Your vehicle may also be experiencing low power steering fluid, worn or loose power steering belt, a faulty power steering pump, or a leaking power steering rack. Regardless, if you’re noticing any of these unusual signs, take your vehicle into a reliable mechanic.
Wheel Misalignment
Another way to stop the shaking in your steering wheel is to ensure all of your tires are aligned and positioned correctly. Similarly to an unbalanced wheel, a wheel that’s out of alignment will often make tires wear unevenly. Besides shaking, you may also notice the vehicle pulling to one side of the road. This can also be a sign that your car is likely out of alignment.
Failing Steering Gear
Your steering gear is the foundation of your steering wheel. The steering gear helps transfer motion to the vehicle’s wheels, so it’s effortless for you to turn your car. A few indicators will warn you that something is off with your steering gear such as noise when steering, binding, steering looseness, drifting and pulling, fluid leaks, and warning lights. If you notice any of these symptoms, you’ll want to address them immediately.
Get Your Steering Wheel Fixed By a Professional Team
Besides these causes, there are quite a few reasons why your steering wheel started to shake. To avoid a bigger problem, always contact a professional to help you find the root of your problem.
If you’re having a problem with your steering wheel, don’t forget to contact AV Bumper to Bumper. We’d be glad to help answer your questions. Give us a call at 661-949-1999 today!
