A shaky steering wheel is not just an annoyance that seems to pop up at the worst possible time—it can be a sign of underlying issues that could lead to more serious (and potentially dangerous) problems. Ignoring the issue will cost you in the long run so listen up as we run through some of the most common problems that can lead to a shaky steering wheel;

1. Unbalanced or Damaged Tyres

If you haven’t been for a car service in Bexley in quite some time, it’s time to get your tyres checked as this is the number one cause of vibrations in the steering. Check and look for signs of damage, unbalanced wear and tear, and get the pressure checked. If you don’t see any signs of the above, go and see your local mechanic and see if the tyres are balanced correctly.

2. Misaligned Wheels

Does the shaking get worse when you’re on a straight road? If so, improper wheel alignment could be the cause of your problems. Test this theory by driving slow on a straight stretch of road and see if the steering pulls to one side. If so, it’s time to see your mechanic for a car service in Bexley and get the wheel alignment checked over. Your mechanic should be able to refer to the correct manufacturer specifications and get you back on the road in no time.

3. Brake System Problems

If the shaking happens when you brake, the issue is likely with the brake system, specifically the rotors. This can be caused by warped brake rotors, which happens as a result of excessive heat. It could also be caused by a brake caliper that is stuck in place. Test this theory by checking if the vehicle pulls to one side when you brake. You might also get the smell of burning when you tap the brakes. Again, going to see your local mechanic is the best solution as a full inspection of the rotors, brake pads and calipers needs to be done.

4. Suspension and Steering System Issues

If the steering wheel shakes when the vehicle is turning, it’s an indication of a problem with the suspension and steering system. A full inspection of the suspension components (tie rods, ball joints, and control arm bushings etc) needs to be completed by a professional. Replacing any faulty components in the suspension and/or steering system should fix the problem. Most mechanics will complete a suspension check without having to do a full inspection of the vehicle.

And there you have it - four common causes of a shaky steering wheel. As always, it’s best to go and see a mechanic at the earliest possible time to avoid turning what-could-be a minor issue into a major - and potentially more  costly and dangerous - problem.