Why does it feel like my wheels are wobbling?
Wobbling wheels are most commonly caused by unbalanced wheels or suspension issues. Wobbling wheels are bad signs on any car. If the wobble can be felt through the steering wheel and you’re having trouble keeping your car pointed straight, the issue is even more serious.
What do unbalanced wheels sound like?
When imbalanced wheels vibrate, they create a slight humming or buzzing noise not otherwise present for balanced wheels. The unbalanced tread depths cause tires to emit loud noises while driving. Usually, you’ll hear sounds caused by uneven wear coming from one tire. Alignment issues can also cause tire noises.
How do you know if your wheels are unbalanced?
Balancing also contributes to ride comfort: Imbalanced tires will wobble or hop up and down, which causes vibration. If a front tire isn’t properly balanced you’ll likely feel vibration in the steering wheel. If the problem is in the rear the tremor will be noticeable in the seat or floor.
Can You Check Suspension with wheels still on?
Examination of suspension parts can often be carried out with the wheels still on, but on some cars you may have to remove them. Wheels must be on for some checks. Support the car securely on axle stands under chassis members. The force used to lever various suspension parts can easily topple a car that is not securely supported.
Where to check suspension joints and pivots in a car?
With MacPherson struts, look at the mounting at the top of the inner wing panel. Check for corrosion, which is a common problem with older cars. Open the bonnet and bounce the front of the car up and down while watching the rubber bush at the centre of the strut mounting.
Why are there no ball joints on strut suspension?
On vehicles with strut suspensions, there are no ball joints unless the suspension is a wishbone combination, but the upper mounting plate can become worn out, and cause noises. Worn ball joints upset the camber alignment making tires wear faster and causing steering pull.
How do you change the pivot on a rear suspension?
Usually, removing the rear suspension locating arms is straight-forward – unscrew the pivot bolts and lift out the arm. Take it to a garage to have the old bushes removed and new ones fitted, if they are available. If they are not, the complete arm assembly must be replaced. A front suspension with torsion bar and piston damper.