My 2006 XK8 convertible, 70k miles, is transmitting the road surface to the steering wheel. The shocks are original, but I would expect a floating sensation if they needed to be replaced. Tires are OK and at door frame pressures (32/34 psi). What should I check for?
Thanks!

 

Have you ever done any maintenance to the front suspension so far?

If not then you are definitely due for sway bar bushings, probably upper shock mounts. Shocks themselves are likely okay.

In the short term you can lower your tire pressures to 30 rear and 32 front (like a lot of us have) then have the tires road force balanced at that pressure. Inspect all the control arm bushings, lower shock bushings, steering rack mounts while its up in the air.

Try that and let us know.

 

I just bought an ‘04 with 45k miles. I wouldn’t classify the ride as “bad” by any stretch, but I do notice some steering wheel chatter at certain speeds. I’m taking Rothwell’s advice and doing shock mounts and sway bar bushings. Even though the mileage is low, the age of these rubber bits/pieces is probably beyond their useful lifespan. While I have the shock assemblies removed to tackle the upper mounts, I’m taking the opportunity to put in new shocks even though it’s probably not necessary. For $200, cheap piece of mind.

Pop your hood at look at your shock towers. If you see the mounts deteriorating like mine are in this picture, it’s probably time for shock mounts if nothing else. And while you have the wheels off and the car on jack stands, some of these other items are pretty easy to check off the list (so I am told). I have a shipment en route with new mounts, bushings and shocks for an upcoming weekend of fun....

 

It's a GT car. You are supposed to feel the road surface in the steering wheel. Become one with the road.......

 

Thanks! Upper shock mounts recently addressed recently. I'll have the other items you mention at the next service interval.

 

Thanks! Yes, they were recently replaced. Your help is appreciated.

 

What size wheels do you have? 20” give a significantly harder ride than 18.

 

Steering wheel vibration has gradually increased.