Steering Vibration (even at idle!)

[Bob Guinn]

The steering wheel vibrates all the time...even at idle, whether in neutral or drive! When I rev the engine in neutral there is no increase in vibration. Gets worse as vehicle speed increases. When I come away from a stop, within about 5-6 feet the front end will also shutter slightly. Just got new tires w/ balance, new shocks, and had the drivetrain checked (it was fine). The vehicle tracks straight at all speeds. Every mechanic that I know is stumped.

 

[Chris]

Was it doing it before the new tires / shocks (and whatever else you had done)?

If it's vibrating at idle, it seems like the issue would be related to the steering shaft / column itself. I believe there are rubber isolator mounts in there. Yours have very likely failed.

 

[Bob Guinn]

Was it doing it before the new tires / shocks (and whatever else you had done)?

If it's vibrating at idle, it seems like the issue would be related to the steering shaft / column itself. I believe there are rubber isolator mounts in there. Yours have very likely failed.

do you think thats possible at 53,000 original miles?

 

[Chris]

do you think thats possible at 53,000 original miles?

I do. Especially since it's 20 years old! Rubber bushings deteriorate over time, even with low miles.

I would say it's either that or your engine mounts / transmission mounts. That's what's allowing the vibration at idle. I would replace all of them if it were me. It's cheap, and an easy fix.