Wheels and Tires: Testing and Inspection

TIRE AND WHEEL VIBRATION
Tire and wheel imbalance, runout and force variation can cause vehicles to exhibit steering wheel vibration.

VISUAL INSPECTION
Visual inspection of the vehicle is recommended prior to road testing or performing any other procedure. Raise the vehicle on a suitable hoist.
Inspect for the following:
^ Verify correct (OEM) wheel and tire, as well as correct wheel weights.
^ Inspect tires and wheels for damage, mud packing and unusual wear; correct as necessary
^ Check and adjust tire air pressure to the pressure listed on the label attached to the drivers door opening.

ROAD TEST
Road test vehicle on a smooth road for a least five miles to warm tires (remove any flat spots). Lightly place hands on steering wheel at the 10:00 and 2:00 positions while slowly sweeping up and down from 90 to 110 km/h (55 to 70 mph) where legal speed limits allow.
Observe the steering wheel for:
^ Visual Nibble (oscillation: clockwise/counterclockwise, usually due to tire imbalance)
^ Visual Business (high frequency, rapid vibration up and down)
^ To rule out vibrations due to brakes or powertrain:
^ Lightly apply brakes at speed; if vibration occurs or is enhanced, vibration is likely due to causes other than tire and wheel assemblies.
^ Shift transmission into neutral while vibration is occurring; if vibration is eliminated, vibration is likely due to causes other than tire and wheel assemblies.

For brake vibrations, (Refer to Antilock Brakes / Traction Control Systems/Testing and Inspection). Testing and Inspection

For powertrain vibrations, refer to Differential & Driveline/Testing and Inspection.

For tire and wheel assembly vibrations, continue with this diagnosis and testing procedure.

TIRE AND WHEEL BALANCE
1. Balance the tire and wheel assemblies as necessary following the wheel balancer manufacturers instructions and using the information listed in Tire And Wheel Balance.
2. Road test the vehicle for at least 5 miles, following the format described in Road Test.
3. If the vibration persists, continue with this diagnosis and testing procedure.