Can Wheel Alignment Cause Your Car to Shake?
Last Updated on October 17, 2023
Have you ever experienced the unnerving sensation of your steering wheel shaking while driving?
It’s a discomfort that can leave even the most seasoned drivers on edge.
While there can be a multitude of reasons for this phenomenon, one common culprit is misalignment.
This simple yet jarring issue can cause your car to shake and jeopardize your safety on the road.
But fear not!
Chapel Hill Tire, with its dedication to customer satisfaction and speedy service, is here to address any alignment or tire-related problems you may have.
So, if you’re ready to get back on the road without the shakes, buckle up and read on!
can alignment cause car to shake
Yes, alignment issues can cause a car to shake.
When the wheels of a car are not aligned properly, it can lead to various problems including shaking.
Signs of alignment issues can include constant vehicle vibration, pulling of the steering wheel to one side, noisy tires, and uneven tire wear.
Regular alignment checks and services can help prevent alignment issues and extend tire lifespan.
It is also important to balance tires every 10,000-12,000 miles to prevent imbalance-related shaking.
Key Points:
- Alignment issues can cause a car to shake.
- Improper wheel alignment can lead to various problems including shaking.
- Signs of alignment issues include constant vehicle vibration, pulling of the steering wheel to one side, noisy tires, and uneven tire wear.
- Regular alignment checks and services can prevent alignment issues and extend tire lifespan.
- Balancing tires every 10,000-12,000 miles is important to prevent imbalance-related shaking.
- Taking preventive measures like alignment checks and tire balancing can help prevent shaking caused by alignment issues.
Check this out:
💡 Did You Know?
Here are 5 interesting and little-known pieces of trivia related to how wheel alignment can cause a car to shake:
1. Tire Misalignment: One of the common causes of a shaking car can be misaligned tires. If the wheels are not properly aligned, it can create vibrations that make the car shake. This can be fixed by ensuring the tires are properly aligned.
2. Caster Angle: The caster angle is an important factor in wheel alignment. It is the angle formed by the steering axis when viewed from the side of the vehicle. A negative caster angle can cause the car to shake while driving at high speeds.
3. Toe-in or Toe-out: The toe-in or toe-out refers to the angle at which the tires point inward or outward when viewed from the top. Incorrect toe-in or toe-out settings can lead to a shaking car as it affects the stability and straight-line movement of the vehicle.
4. Feathered Tires: Excessive wear on one side of the tire treads, causing a feather-like pattern, can be an indication of misaligned wheels. This type of tire wear can result in a shaking sensation while driving.
5. Suspended Components: Misalignment not only affects the wheels but can also impact the suspension components. If the suspension parts are not aligned correctly, it can result in an imbalance that causes the car to shake or vibrate during driving.
1. Warped Brake Rotors
One possible cause of a shaking steering wheel is warped brake rotors. The friction between the brake pads and rotors can bend the rotors over time, resulting in shaking when you apply the brakes. If you notice this issue, it can be fixed by either replacing or resurfacing the rotors.
- Brake rotor replacement: involves installing new rotors.
- Resurfacing: involves removing a thin layer of metal from the rotors to create a new, smooth surface.
Seeking the assistance of a professional mechanic is recommended to ensure the proper fix is applied.
2. Tire Alignment Troubles
Misalignment of your tires can cause not only a shaking steering wheel but also uneven tire wear. Over time, driving on misaligned tires can lead to severe damage to your tires and suspension system. Signs of misalignment include constant vehicle vibration, pulling of the steering wheel to one side, noisy tires, and uneven tire wear. To rectify this issue, a wheel alignment service is required. During a wheel alignment, the angles of the wheels are adjusted according to the manufacturer’s specifications, ensuring that all four wheels are properly aligned. Regular wheel alignment checks are essential to prevent alignment issues and maintain the overall stability of your vehicle.
3. Tire Balancing Troubles
Unbalanced tires can cause a shaking steering wheel due to the vibrations they produce. This can make driving uncomfortable. To resolve this problem, it is advisable to balance your tires every 10,000-12,000 miles or as directed by the tire manufacturer. During a tire balancing service, small weights are added to the tire rim to address any weight irregularities. By keeping your tires balanced, you ensure a smooth and stable ride.
4. Sticking Brake Caliper
Sometimes, a shaking steering wheel may be caused by a sticking brake caliper. A seized brake caliper can cause uneven braking and ultimately result in shaking when you apply the brakes. This issue requires immediate attention as it can negatively impact your braking system’s effectiveness and lead to further damage. Consulting a professional mechanic is crucial to address the sticking brake caliper issue properly.
5. Suspension Issues
Problems with the suspension system of your vehicle can lead to a shaking steering wheel. The suspension system plays a critical role in maintaining stability and ensuring a smooth ride.
Any issues with components such as shock absorbers, struts, or control arms can result in vibrations and shaking.
If you notice a persistent shaking steering wheel accompanied by other signs, such as a bumpy ride or unusual noises when driving over bumps, you should have your suspension system inspected by a professional mechanic.
- Suspension system problems can cause a shaking steering wheel
- Issues with shock absorbers, struts, or control arms can lead to vibrations
- Pay attention to other signs like a bumpy ride or unusual noises when driving over bumps
- Consult a professional mechanic for inspection
6. Misaligned Wheels
When the wheels of your car are not aligned properly, it can cause a shaking steering wheel. Misalignment can occur due to various reasons, such as hitting potholes, curbs, or regular wear and tear over time. Signs of misaligned wheels include:
- Constant vehicle vibrations
- Pulling of the steering wheel to one side
- Noisy tires
- Uneven tire wear
If you notice any of these signs, it is crucial to address the issue promptly to prevent further damage. Seeking the assistance of a professional mechanic for a wheel alignment service will help realign your wheels and restore stability to your vehicle.
7. Shake Concentrated In Specific Areas
In some cases, a shaking steering wheel might be most concentrated in specific areas of the vehicle, like the rear seats or the driver’s seat and steering wheel. This can occur when the back tires are unbalanced, leading to increased vibrations transmitted through the vehicle. If you experience this issue, it is a clear indication that your tires need balancing. Having your tires balanced every 10,000-12,000 miles or as recommended by the tire manufacturer will help eliminate such imbalances and ensure a smooth driving experience.
8. Regular Alignment Checks And Services
Regular alignment checks and services are crucial in maintaining the overall stability and performance of your vehicle. By scheduling regular alignment checks, you can identify and address any alignment issues early on, preventing more significant problems down the road. Additionally, having your vehicle professionally aligned also extends the lifespan of your tires by ensuring even wear.
Proper alignment helps distribute the weight evenly across all four tires, minimizing the chance of excessive tire wear or damage.
To summarize, here are the benefits of regular alignment checks and services:
- Identify and address alignment issues early on
- Prevent more significant problems in the future
- Extend the lifespan of your tires
- Ensure even wear across all tires
- Minimize the chance of excessive tire wear or damage.
9. Tires Should Be Balanced Every 10,000-12,000 Miles
To ensure a smooth and stable ride, it is important to regularly balance your tires. This should be done every 10,000-12,000 miles, or as advised by the tire manufacturer. Balancing your tires helps correct any weight irregularities, which in turn prevents vibrations and shaking. These issues can impact your steering wheel and overall driving experience. Neglecting tire balancing can result in uneven tire wear, ultimately shortening the lifespan of your tires. Moreover, it can compromise your safety while on the road.
10. Worn Tires Should Be Addressed
Worn tires pose a significant safety risk and can cause steering wheel shaking. As tires become worn, they lose their ability to provide a smooth and stable ride. This can result in vibrations and imbalance, making driving uncomfortable and potentially dangerous. It is essential to promptly replace worn tires with new ones that meet the manufacturer’s specifications. Regular tire inspections and proper maintenance are vital to guarantee the safety and performance of your vehicle.
- Worn tires are a safety concern and can cause steering wheel shaking.
- As tires wear down, they provide a less smooth and stable ride.
- Balding tires can create vibrations and imbalance, leading to discomfort and potential hazards while driving.
- Promptly replacing worn tires with new ones that meet the manufacturer’s specifications is crucial.
- Regular tire inspections and proper maintenance are essential for ensuring the safety and performance of your vehicle.
11. Chapel Hill Tire Offers Local Vehicle Service In The Greater Triangle Area
Chapel Hill Tire is a leading provider of vehicle services in the greater Triangle area. With ten mechanic locations spread across Apex, Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Cary, Carrboro, and Durham, Chapel Hill Tire ensures convenient access for its customers.
Renowned for their commitment to customer satisfaction and extensive industry experience, Chapel Hill Tire offers a wide range of services such as alignments, tire balancing, brake repairs, and suspension system inspections.
The skilled technicians at Chapel Hill Tire are dedicated to addressing your automotive needs efficiently and effectively. Trust in Chapel Hill Tire for all your vehicle service requirements.
12. Chapel Hill Tire’s Customer-Centered Values And Quick Service
Chapel Hill Tire values its customers and strives to provide exceptional service. Their commitment to customer satisfaction is reflected in their quick and efficient service. When you choose Chapel Hill Tire, you can count on their knowledgeable technicians to diagnose and resolve any issues causing your car to shake. They encourage customers to make appointments, ensuring that you receive prompt attention and minimize any inconvenience. By choosing Chapel Hill Tire, you can have peace of mind knowing that your vehicle is in competent hands.
A shaking steering wheel can be an indication of various underlying issues, ranging from simple alignment troubles to more complex problems with the brakes, suspension system, or wheels. Regular alignment checks and services, along with proper tire maintenance, are essential in preventing alignment issues and ensuring a smooth and safe driving experience. By addressing these issues promptly with the assistance of skilled professionals, like those at Chapel Hill Tire, you can maintain the performance and longevity of your vehicle while ensuring your safety on the road.
- Chapel Hill Tire provides exceptional service and values its customers.
- They offer quick and efficient service with knowledgeable technicians.
- Appointments are encouraged to receive prompt attention and minimize inconvenience.
- A shaking steering wheel can indicate various underlying issues.
- Regular alignment checks and services, along with proper tire maintenance, are essential.
- Choosing skilled professionals like Chapel Hill Tire can help maintain performance and ensure safety on the road.
FAQ
Will an alignment fix shaking?
Yes, a wheel alignment can fix shaking or vibrations caused by alignment issues. When the wheels are not properly aligned, it can create an imbalance that leads to the steering wheel shaking or vibrations. By getting a quick wheel alignment service, the technician adjusts the angles of the wheels to the manufacturer’s specifications, ensuring they are parallel and perpendicular to the ground. This realignment corrects any imbalance and eliminates the shaking or vibrations, restoring a smooth and stable ride. Additionally, the alignment service will also help prevent uneven and accelerated tire wear, keeping your tires in better condition for longer.
Why is my car shaking when I get an alignment?
When getting an alignment, it is possible that the shaking sensation you feel is due to a previously undetected issue with either one or multiple tires. This can be caused by tires that are out of balance, which can lead to vibrations being transferred to the rest of the vehicle. Additionally, if there is a bent wheel or a worn driveline U-joint, these factors can also contribute to the shaking sensation. It is important to address any of these potential issues swiftly to ensure a smooth and safe driving experience.
Can a bad alignment cause shaking on highway?
A bad alignment can indeed cause shaking on the highway. When the wheels of a vehicle are not properly aligned, it can lead to uneven tire wear. This uneven wear can result in imbalances and vibrations at high speeds, causing the vehicle to shake. Additionally, an off-center steering wheel and a pulling sensation to one side can also contribute to the shaking on the highway. Therefore, ensuring proper alignment is essential for a smooth and stable ride.
How do you know if you need an alignment?
If you notice that your vehicle is consistently pulling to one side while you’re driving, it may indicate the need for an alignment. Additionally, if you observe unusual wear on your tires or your steering wheel appears off-center even when your vehicle is pointed straight, it could be a sign of misalignment. However, it’s essential to note that these symptoms may also have alternative causes, some simpler to resolve and others more complex.
