Have you ever felt your steering wheel shaking when you press the gas? It can be pretty alarming! This vibration might seem like a small issue, but it can point to bigger problems with your vehicle. Understanding why your steering vibrates and how to fix it is important for your safety and peace of mind. Here are eight common reasons your steering vibrates during acceleration and how you can easily solve them.
1. Misaligned Tyres
If your tyres are misaligned, it means they are not pointed in the right direction. This misalignment can cause your steering wheel to shake, especially when you reach speeds of about 60 miles per hour. You might even notice that your car pulls to one side while driving, which can be dangerous.
How to Spot Misaligned Tyres
- Steering wheel off-center: If your steering wheel isn’t straight when driving straight, that’s a sign.
- Uneven tyre wear: Check if some parts of your tyres look more worn down than others.
- Pulling to one side: If your car drifts to the left or right, that’s another clue.
What to Do
Take your car to a local mechanic to get the tyres aligned. They will check the air pressure and inspect the tyres for any damage. If you don’t know a good mechanic nearby, you can check Everything Motors for trusted mechanics in Lagos, Port Harcourt, or Asaba. A simple adjustment can make a world of difference, ensuring your car drives smoothly without shaking.
2. Worn Control Arm Bushings (Camber Bushing)
Control arm bushings are rubber parts in your car’s suspension that help absorb bumps on the road. Over time, these bushings can wear out, leading to vibrations in your steering. If your vehicle steering vibrates during acceleration, it may be a sign of worn bushings.
How to Tell If Bushings Are Worn
- Increased vibrations: If you feel more shaking when you speed up, it might be due to bad bushings.
- Clunking noises: Listen for a knocking sound when you turn or brake; this could be your bushings failing.
- Unexpected swerving: If your car swerves to one side when you brake, that’s a sign to pay attention.
What to Do
Visit a trusted mechanic to replace the worn bushings. This repair can greatly improve your driving comfort and safety. To ensure you don’t get scammed or face inflated prices from roadside mechanics, check Everything Motors for the right and competitive prices on rebushing services. This way, you can make an informed decision and avoid overpaying.
3. Bad or Expired Tyres
Every tyre has a lifespan, usually around five years. After that, they can become weak, especially if you drive a lot or use them on rough roads. Worn or damaged tyres can cause vibrations, particularly when you speed up.
How to Spot Bad Tyres
- Visible damage: Look for cracks or bulges on the tyre surface.
- Uneven wear patterns: Check if some parts of your tyres are smoother than others.
- Vibrations at high speeds: If you feel shaking in the steering wheel when you go over 60 km/h, it’s time to inspect your tyres.
What to Do
Inspect your tyres regularly and replace them when they show signs of wear. If you’re unsure, check Everything Motors for good quality tyres at the best rates. They can help you find the right tyres for your vehicle, ensuring you get a great deal without compromising on safety.
4. Unbalanced Tyres
When your tyres are unbalanced, they don’t spin evenly, which can lead to vibrations, especially at higher speeds. Unbalanced tyres may cause your car to wobble, making your drive uncomfortable.
How to Tell If Your Tyres Are Unbalanced
- Vibration at certain speeds: If you notice shaking only when you reach a specific speed, that’s a red flag.
- Uneven tyre wear: Similar to misalignment, unbalanced tyres wear out differently across their surface.
What to Do
Go to a mechanic for a tyre balancing service. They will adjust the weights on the tyres to ensure everything spins smoothly. If there is uncertainty about where to find a good mechanic, you can also check Everything Motors for experienced mechanics nearby. This simple fix can significantly improve comfort while driving.
5. Faulty Wheel Bearings
Wheel bearings help your wheels turn smoothly. If they become worn out, you may hear grinding noises or feel vibrations when driving, especially during acceleration. If your vehicle steering vibrates during acceleration, faulty wheel bearings could be the cause.
How to Spot Faulty Wheel Bearings
- Grinding or humming noise: If you hear a constant noise that gets louder as you speed up, it could be your wheel bearings.
- Vibrations while turning: You might feel the steering wheel shaking when you take a turn.
What to Do
If there is a suspicion of faulty wheel bearings, it is important to get them checked immediately. Ignoring this problem could lead to serious issues, including losing a wheel while driving. Replacement bearings can be obtained from Everything Motors, and a mechanic will be provided to fix them, ensuring everything is safe and secure.
6. Bent or Damaged Driveshaft
The driveshaft is a long metal tube that connects the engine to the wheels. If it gets bent or damaged, it can cause vibrations as the car accelerates.
How to Tell If Your Driveshaft Is Damaged
- Vibrations during acceleration: You may notice shaking when you press the gas pedal.
- Thumping noise: A noticeable thumping sound when accelerating can signal a problem.
What to Do
Visit a mechanic to inspect the driveshaft. If it’s bent, mechanics from Everything Motors will repair or replace it, ensuring your car runs smoothly. The process can typically be completed within a day without the complications often associated with roadside mechanics.
7. Warped Brake Rotors
Brake rotors are the flat metal discs that help stop your car. If they become warped, you might feel vibrations when you accelerate or brake. This issue can be particularly noticeable after heavy braking.
How to Spot Warped Brake Rotors
- Vibrations when braking: If your steering wheel shakes when you hit the brakes, your rotors might be the issue.
- Squeaking noises: If you hear a high-pitched noise, it’s time to have your brakes checked.
What to Do
Take your car to a trusted mechanic to have the rotors checked. They can either resurface them or replace them to ensure your braking system works correctly.
8. Engine Misfires from Weak Spark Plugs or Fuel Delivery Issues
Engine misfires happen when your engine doesn’t run smoothly, often due to weak spark plugs or problems with the fuel system. This can cause vibrations in the steering wheel while accelerating. If your vehicle steering vibrates during acceleration, it’s crucial to check this aspect.
How to Tell If Your Engine Is Misfiring
- Rough idling: If your car shakes or sounds uneven when you stop at traffic lights, that’s a sign.
- Loss of power: You might notice that your car doesn’t accelerate as it should.
- Check engine light: If the light on your dashboard is on, it’s time for an inspection.
What to Do
Get your spark plugs checked and replaced if they’re worn out. Also, have a mechanic inspect your fuel delivery system to ensure everything is functioning correctly. Regular engine maintenance helps you avoid bigger problems down the road. For more tips on keeping your vehicle in top shape, check out these Essential Vehicle Maintenance Tips To Prevent Road Accidents.
Conclusion
Feeling your steering vibrate during acceleration can be alarming, but understanding the causes can help you take quick action. From misaligned tyres to engine issues, identifying the problem early can prevent more significant damage and keep you safe on the road. If you notice any of these signs, don’t hesitate to consult a mechanic for a thorough check.
If you’re in Lagos, Port Harcourt, or Asaba, contact Everything Motors for professional and reliable vehicle services. Keep your car in great shape, drive safely, and enjoy your journey!
About The Author
