An extra shaky steering wheel can be pretty unnerving, but even more importantly it could give you some information about issues elsewhere in your car. Shaky steering can quickly become a huge safety issue, so it’s important that you don’t ignore the issue. It only gets worse, and that isn’t what you want. Here’s what Erik’s Automotive wants you to know.
Your Brakes Are Going Bad
If your steering wheel is shaking when you’re trying to stop but not at other times, the issue might be with your brakes. You might also experience some other issues when your brakes are the culprit, like noises coming from your car’s brakes. You might hear squeals or grinding sounds when you apply the brakes. Also pay attention to whether it’s taking longer than usual to stop your car when you do hit the brake pedal.
Your Tires Are in Trouble
Your car’s tires are your direct connection with the road. When the tread is wearing unevenly or the wheels themselves are out of balance, that’s something that you’re going to feel through the steering wheel. If you’re experiencing a shaking steering wheel while you’re driving, check the air pressure in your tires to make sure that they’re all correct. Double check the tread and consider booking a wheel balancing appointment.
Your Car Needs an Alignment
Something else that might be happening is that your wheels are out of alignment. This again impacts how well the tires meet the road, and if they’re at an angle, you’re going to feel that. Your wheels need to be aligned more often than you realize, so it’s important not to skip that service. It’s a good idea to get your wheel alignment at least checked every few thousand miles.
Your Car’s Suspension or Steering Are Having Trouble
Most car owners think about steering and suspension as very different systems, but they really are very closely connected to each other. If your steering wheel is having issues with the bearings or with the power steering system, you might feel that as shaking in the wheel. Likewise, if parts of the suspension are failing, like the shocks, you might feel extra sensations via the steering wheel.
Don’t wait if you’re experiencing shaking in your car’s steering wheel. Erik’s Automotive in San Antonio, TX can accurately diagnose the trouble and let you know what the best solution is for repairing the problem.