Why is My 2010 Toyota 4Runner’s Steering Wheel Shaking at Highway Speeds?

Q: I have a 2010 Toyota 4Runner with a 4.0L engine. When driving between 60-70 MPH, my steering wheel shakes. The problem also happens when making sweeping turns. I just got a new set of tires 100 miles ago and a wheel alignment 500 miles ago, neither of which fixed the issue. What could the problem be?

– Ray from New York City, New York

A: Hello, Ray. I’m going to assume that the shop performed a wheel balance when you bought the tires. I’ll also assume that the alignment was done correctly. 

Usually, vibrations felt through the steering wheel at highway speeds are caused by wheel and tire problems. You might want to double-check the wheel balance and look for issues, such as a bent rim or out-of-round wheel/tire. 

I would also take a peek at the wheel bearing assemblies. A worn wheel bearing or bent hub can lead to vibrations. 

Check each bearing assembly for play by raising the vehicle, putting your hands at the 12 o’clock and 6 o’clock positions on the tire, and rocking the wheel/tire assembly. You can check the hub portion of the bearing assembly for distortion by placing a dial indicator on the flange, then turning the hub. 

You can also narrow down the possible causes of the vibration by using a noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) analyzer. Low frequency (5-20 Hz) vibration issues are usually due to wheel/tire problems. 

You can learn more about using an NVH analyzer for your smartphone by watching this video:

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