Since it's been pretty cold here in Virginia, I have been driving my XK8 only every couple of weeks and, then, only for about 15 to 20 miles. I notice that for the first five miles or so I have a shimmy felt in the steering wheel that feels like flat-spotted tires. I was thinking today though -- why only in the front? Wouldn't the rear tires be equally as flat spotted? I do not feel anything through the seat, which is where is rear tire issues, such as balancing, usually rear (pun intended) their ugly head. I would think shock bushings would not self correct nor would a balance issue. I am currently running Continental Extreme Contact DWS, which are in good shape.


Any thoughts?

 

more weight on front tires???????
If I let mine sit in this cold weather for a week or so I can feel it for a little bit.

 

I understand what you are saying, and I get the same thing when I leave it a week or more, especially during cold weather. I think that it is just a matter of the vibration coming through to the steering wheel being more apparent than what comes through all the way through the rear suspension to the car seat. I too notice it from the front but not really from the rear.

 

+1 for it is just more noticeable in the front.

I also have the Continental DWS and notice the same behavior. Minor vibration for a few miles that sorts itself out.

 

I wonder if quality of tire brand plays into it also.

 

i have toyos and have had continentals and also pirellis... if it gets down to 30 ish between the tire pressure dropping due to the temp and the rubber becoming more rigid i can feel the flat spot for about 10 min or so before they heat up and ride smooth .