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Jim
Grant has been working in the automotive industry for over twenty
years. In addition, Jim is an ASE Master Technician with advanced
L/1 certification. He works as manager and technician in his
family's automotive business in New Hampshire. He writes weekly
automotive consumer columns and is editor of an automotive newsletter
that is circulated throughout North America. |
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Jim Grant's Tech Tips
‘92 Chevy
Cavalier, Steering Wheel Shake
Q: The steering wheel in my ‘92 Chevy Cavalier shakes anytime
I go above 55 -what is the problem?
A: The
most common cause for a vibration at a specific speed on a vehicle is
due to tire balance issues. It is rare that a tire will ever maintain
its balance from the day of installation, there are just too many factors,
not to mention the damaging the effects of hitting pot holes, curbs and
other road hazards. Because the shake is felt in the steering wheel of
the vehicle it is likely that one or both of the front tires has a balance
problem. If you were to feel a shake in your derriere then the problem
would likely be caused by rear tires. Have the tire balance checked, if
the technician is doing his/her job, they will inspect your tires for
wear, cupping or damage while performing the work. They can alert you
to possible dangers (like a bad tire) or lose front end parts. I recommend
to my customers to check tire pressure regularly, rotate their tires every
other oil change, which should be in the area of 6000 to 8000 miles and
have the balance checked every other time 12000 to 16000 miles. One other
note, an out of balance tire "will" cause premature wear and failure of
shocks/strut, steering and suspension components. Regular maintenance
saves you money in more ways than most people realize.
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