Have you ever wondered “Why does my steering wheel shake?” Steering wheel shaking is a common concern for drivers. Several causes of Steering Wheel Vibrations are low tire pressure, tire tread loss, or out-of-balance tires. These problems may be a minor or major cause of concern.

Tire Pressure

The first thing to check is your tire pressure. Look inside the driver’s side door. There is a sticker that will tell you what your tire’s pressure should be. Improper tire pressure can cause a vibration. It can also lower fuel economy and shorten the life of the tires.

Tire Tread

As tires wear, the tread loses depth. Wear can allow the inner structure of the tire to break down and separate, which can be dangerous. A separated tire can blow out and lead to you sitting on the side of the road waiting for a tow truck. In extreme cases, tire blowouts can cause an accident.

Tire Balance

However, worn tires are not the only cause of Steering Wheel Vibrations. Sometimes it can be as simple as the tire balance. A tire can get out of balance through normal driving. Although tires are balanced when they are new, there is a “break-in” period for tires and it is common for the tire to “shift” on the wheel and get out of balance. We recommend balancing tires once every 20,000 miles. This will not only prolong the life of the tires, but will also improve the ride. Tires are important to your safety and driving enjoyment.