Why Is My Steering Wheel Shaking?

Why is your steering wheel shaking? Does your steering wheel shake when braking or performing other actions behind the wheel? What causes steering wheel shakes while driving in Tampa or anywhere else? There are several reasons why your steering wheel shakes, all of which require professional attention. Learn about the most common reasons your steering wheel shakes while driving with Subaru South Tampa today. Contact our service department to correct the problem and enjoy every drive in St. Petersburg and the surrounding areas once again.

My Steering Wheel Shakes: Five Causes of a Vibrating Steering Wheel

So, why is your steering wheel shaking when you drive? There are five common reasons why you feel shaking in your steering wheel. Each of them alludes to different problems your vehicle could be having. Pay close attention to them and be sure to have your vehicle checked out to make sure these problems don’t get any worse:

• Unbalanced wheels: The weight placement of your tires is important. If the weight isn’t distributed evenly when the tire is put on, you’ll feel the vehicle vibrating. This is more likely the case in vehicles with lightweight suspension systems. If this isn’t resolved, you could have future issues with the shocks, struts, and other steering components. Simply bring your vehicle into the dealership and have the wheels checked and repositioned.
• Misalignment: Like with unbalanced wheels, improper positioning of your vehicle’s wheels can cause this issue. If you avoid obstacles like potholes and you drive over railroad tracks slowly to avoid damage, then misalignment is less likely to be the issue. It’s easy to tell when it is as you’ll notice the tread on the tires is uneven.
• Bad bearings: If there is damage or not enough lubrication to keep these bearings working properly, they will cause friction, which explains the shaking of your steering wheel. However, this only causes the wheel to shake when turning. Most times a simple cleaning of the bearings can help, but if there’s damage, they’ll need to be replaced and that can typically cost up to $430 including labor costs.
• Suspension issues: If parts are worn or loose, or the driveshaft is imbalanced, this could be the cause. Though these are simple fixes, they aren’t fixes to hold off on. Waiting to have these parts fixed could cause more damage.
• Brake issues: If you notice your steering wheel shakes when braking, the issue lies within your brakes. Worn brake pads, defective brake discs, and even worn shocks can be the cause. Brake pads are also an easy replacement but can cost up to $300 per axle depending on where you have your vehicle serviced.

Bring Your Vehicle to the Service Center at Subaru South Tampa

Now you know the most common reasons that cause steering wheel shakes while driving in Wesley Chapel or anywhere else! No matter why your steering wheel shakes, you need the issue rectified for safer, more enjoyable driving experiences. Whether your steering wheel shakes when braking or because of any other reason, our experienced technicians will identify and fix the problem efficiently. Call (813) 279-8417 or contact us online today to make an appointment at our dealership in Town N’ Country. For more helpful information, review why you should always schedule service appointments with us and learn about our Subaru maintenance program!