Vibration at 70mph

[zipadeedodah]

When I was doing 70mph on the dual carriageway earlier the steering wheel was vibrating quite alot, much more than usual as I haven't noticed it before. It wasn't noticable doing less than 60-65 mph ish. Does anyone know of any possible causes?

[Clanad]

Could be something as simple as an out of balance tire (tyre?) that only shows up after a certain speed. I'd have that checked first but also ask for an inspection of the entire steering mechanism and linkages...

[Buenchico]

Head for any 'tyre and exhaust' centre. (I recommend Kwik-Fit). Explain the problem and ask them to check the wheel balancing and tracking. (it won't cost you very much).

If that fails to fix the problem, take a look at the 8th question asked on The Times motoring page, here:
http://driving.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,13 489-2117680,00.html

Chris

[homer75]

You've probably lost one of the balance weights on one of the front wheels. You may be able to see if one has come adrift by looking at the wheels for a fresh clean spot on the rim where the weight was attached. I would avoid Kwik Fit - they work on a commision basis and will try to panic you into the fitting of new dampers, springs, steering rack, tyres etc..... - in fact anthing that can be unbolted !!

[zipadeedodah]

Thanks for the answers!

I discovered that my front left wheel trim was broken, and only being held on by a couple of cable ties. Could this have been the only problem? There are a few bits on the rim that are cleaner than the others, but one small clean bit that is about an inch wide that could well have been where the balance weight was attached i suppose.

[mr rusty]

It's unlikely to be caused by a broken trim. As well as getting the balance checked, there is one thing you can check first, which will cost you nothing- jack the car up, one corner at a time, and spin each wheel in turn. You are looking for one of them being out of round, i.e. developing a bulge.

It does sound as if you've just lost a balance weight though.

[tubeway]

It could be a balance weight - but I think that tracking sounds more likely.