What does a shimmy mean in the steering wheel?
What does a shimmy mean in the steering wheel?
steering wheel shake
In general, steering wheel shimmy refers to visible or tactile steering wheel shake. Vibrations that occur at low speed and worsen progressively, usually referred to as a steering “wobble” at low speeds, are likely related to physical imbalances, such as tire flat spots, bent wheels or axles, or seized joints.
What does it mean when your steering wheel shimmy?
In general, steering wheel shimmy refers to visible or tactile steering wheel shake. Depending on the severity and type of shake, you might be able to see it in your hands or even see it if you loosen your grip on the steering wheel. Paying close attention to how and when steering wheel shimmy occurs will help you to narrow down the cause .
What causes your steering wheel to shake when you hit a pothole?
That vibration typically telescopes up through the steering wheel, causing it to shake. Abnormal tire wear, wheel damage from an impact (hitting a pothole, curb or being involved in an accident), unevenly worn tires or even a patched tire can also cause an imbalance. Balancing your tires and wheels usually fixes this problem.
What should I do if my steering wheel shake?
Damaged tires and wheels should be replaced, though some wheels can be repaired safely. Note: When diagnosing tire and wheel problems, one easy step is to simply swap front tires and rear tires. If the shake disappears or moves to the rear, this usually indicates a tire balance or RFV problem.
What causes a wobbly steering wheel in a car?
A wobbly steering wheel is not always caused by car tires because other car issues can trigger the same effect. Here are the leading five causes of a shaky steering wheel: 1. Unbalanced wheels can cause a shaky steering wheel Your newly replaced wheels should be balanced.
What causes steering wheel to shimmy at certain speeds?
Steering wheel shimmy or vibration that occurs only at certain speeds is often related to dynamic imbalance in the tires, wheels, or axles.
When does the steering wheel start to shake?
The key to diagnosing the problem is determining when the shaking takes place: during low, medium or high speed driving; when braking, turning or accelerating; or a combination of these actions. If the same vibration occurs under the same circumstances, or worsens, it’s time to get your vehicle to the pros.
Why does my steering wheel wobble at low speeds?
Vibrations that occur at low speed and worsen progressively, usually referred to as a steering “wobble” at low speeds, are likely related to physical imbalances, such as tire flat spots, bent wheels or axles, or seized joints.
What causes steering wheel to pull to one side?
Incorrectly aligned tires are another cause of steering wheel vibration. If the tires are misaligned, you will notice that your vehicle pulls to one side despite having a straight and centered steering wheel. The easiest and quickest way to diagnose misalignment is to check the tires’ tread.
