5 Reasons Your Vehicle May Not Drive Smoothly
Have you noticed that your vehicle is vibrating or feels bumpy at different speeds? Does your steering wheel vibrate or your car shake? Your vehicle should drive smoothly regardless of speed. Excessive vibration, bumping, shaking or wobbling is a sign of a potential car problem. But what kind of problem? And how do you go about fixing it? These 5 car problems are the most common reasons your vehicle may not drive smoothly.
Tire Problems
Problems with your tires are the most common reason your vehicle isn’t driving smoothly. Tire pressure, uneven tire wear, and tires out of balance are all common culprits. Increasing or decreasing tire pressure is usually a simple fix, but if too much time has passed, low air pressure can cause extra tire wear and too much air pressure can cause the tires to warp or wear more quickly. If you’re steering wheel is shaking, contact your auto mechanic to have your tires rotated and balanced. Is one side of the tire wearing more quickly? You might need an alignment.
Suspension Problems
You vehicle’s suspension system connects the tires to the vehicle and acts as a shock absorber so you don’t feel every pothole and speed bump. The suspension system has lots of components and issues with any number of them could mean a bumpy ride. Concerns? Let us take a look and we’ll recommend any necessary repairs.
Brake Problems
The easiest way to identify potential brake problems is if you feel shuttering or vibrations only as you decelerate. Of course squeaking or squealing noises are a common sign, but these sounds can also mean you simply need new brake pads. If your car feels jerky when braking, have it looked at right away. Brake problems are a safety concern if your brake distance or stop time increases.
Axle Problems
It’s fairly easy to damage an axle in a car accident or other mishap. Since the axle spins to move your vehicle’s wheels, any dents, bends or damage, means the wheels won’t spin evenly. Even something as simple as damaging a car’s rim in an accident (or getting too close to the curb) can mean tires won’t spin evenly.
Engine Problems
Vibrations can come from the engine if there isn’t enough oxygen, fuel or spark to run smoothly. Engine trouble could be the cause of a bumpy ride, particularly if the vibrations are felt during acceleration or within a specific speed range. Proper maintenance can help reduce engine mishaps, but be sure to bring your car in if you are experience these warning signs.
If your car isn’t driving smoothly, bring it to the ASE Certified Technicians at Dave’s Ultimate Automotive. Conveniently schedule an appointment online, or give us a call at one of our 4 greater Austin locations. We’ll get you back on the road, smoothly, in no time.
