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Why is the steering wheel shaking?
Does your car’s steering wheel shake and at higher speeds the vibration is clearly stronger? Then you probably don't have a problem with the steering, strictly speaking. The issue most likely lies elsewhere as there are many Other causes of car vibration. Here we will go into the most common causes of a shaking steering wheel and what to do to have your car fully "under control" again.
Why is my steering wheel shaking?
One of the most common causes of a "shaking" steering wheel is unbalanced wheels. A typical characteristic of such an imbalance is that the intensity of the vibrations at the steering wheel varies depending on the driving speed. The shaking usually increases at a speed of 70 mph or even higher speeds, but the vibrations decrease again once you have reached a certain speed. The tread of the tyres can also be responsible for the vibration of the steering wheel. Unevenly worn tyres are noticeable through an "unsteady" or shaking steering wheel and can also indicate an incorrectly adjusted chassis. If the steering wheel is shaking when braking and is difficult to hold on to, it is most likely a wheel problem, such as wheel bolts that have loosened.
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If the above-mentioned causes can be ruled out, there are a whole range of other factors that can cause the steering wheel to shake, although these are less common in comparison. For example, in vehicles with hydraulic power assistance, the vibrations can also be related to a low power steering fluid level or a lack of ventilation (via the pressure relief valve, which opens when the steering wheel is completely turned) can be the cause. In any of these situations, it’s a good idea to have your vehicle checked out by your local mechanic to see if it needs new car steering parts or if you happen to drive a Samurai, Suzuki Samurai steering parts.
How much does it cost to change the power steering fluid?
Since changing the power steering oil is complicated, most motorists will head for a specialist workshop. The time required on-site for this procedure is around one hour. First, the old oil is pumped out. To remove the oil remaining in the lines, they are flushed while the steering is activated and the engine is running. Changing the fluid is not particularly expensive. The price will be around £70 to £100 including labour depending on where you get this done, so make sure to compare costs beforehand. Maybe a seal will be added and this will set you back a few additional pounds. The advantage of having the professional do the work is not only convenience but also the proper disposal of the oil.
Conclusion
The search for the actual cause of a vibrating steering wheel can be long and tedious. However, it is extremely important for the longevity of the vehicle and driving safety that the problem is recognised and remedied. In many cases, there is no way around a workshop appointment – the sooner, the cheaper the repair of the defect will be. It’s also important to keep in mind that your steering parts and associated components such as the steering rack will be checked to see if it’s fit for the road when you take your car in for your MOT test.
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