Why does my steering wheel shake when driving?
Why does my steering wheel shake when driving?
1. Tires out of Balance. This is the most obvious and the most common reason that you might experience a shaking steering wheel. If your tires are out of alignment or out of balance, they may send shakes through your vehicle and to the steering wheel.
What causes a vibration in the steering column?
Taking a look at the steering column, we can see a number of locations that could cause vibration if a failure occurs. Everything from a failed rack or pinion to a complete loss of fluid due to pump failure can cause an undue vibration in the steering rack of your vehicle and be translated right to your hands.
Where does the power come from in a steering rack?
The “power” part of the steering comes in the form of pressurized fluid in steering rack passages that assist the driver in turning the wheels. The fluid also keeps everything cool and prevents damage in the metal-on-metal gear contact.
What to do if your steering wheel vibrates?
Cleaning, replacing and tightening the loose parts of your brake system are necessary. No matter the reason for your steering wheel to vibrate, early detection and troubleshooting of the issue are important. Steering wheel vibration may be a simple, minor issue like a loose rod or jagged tire tread.
Why does my steering rack make a grinding noise?
This is different from the groaning/whining noise that is commonly heard when the power steering pump is low on fluid. It occurs the same way, when turning corners at low speeds. Grinding is an indication that low or contaminated fluid has damaged the pinion gear and steering rack.
The “power” part of the steering comes in the form of pressurized fluid in steering rack passages that assist the driver in turning the wheels. The fluid also keeps everything cool and prevents damage in the metal-on-metal gear contact.
This is different from the groaning/whining noise that is commonly heard when the power steering pump is low on fluid. It occurs the same way, when turning corners at low speeds. Grinding is an indication that low or contaminated fluid has damaged the pinion gear and steering rack.
What should the fluid level be on a power steering rack?
If the vehicle calls for automatic transmission fluid (ATF) then it should be full, red, and clean. If the vehicle calls for normal power steering fluid then it will be light brown or clear. If the fluid level is low, add more until it reaches the full line, and go for a test drive.
What to do when your steering wheel is numb?
Try a fluid flush. While driving, you may notice a numb spot while the steering wheel is neutral. This can be as large as “10 and 2″ positions on the steering wheel, where, if you turn the wheel, you do not feel any resistance.
