Steering wheel vibration

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Sep 10, 2009 | 07:17 PM

rwspeer

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Steering wheel vibration

Hi,

I recently purchased a 2002 XKR convertible and I have noticed a lot of steering wheel vibration coming through when going over bumps, potholes, grooves, etc. The ride is smooth at all speeds with no vibrations on smooth and newly laid roads but on older roads the road imperfections come right up through the steering wheel. Not sure if the steering is that sensitive "road feel" or if its time for new shocks. There is no steering wheel pull and the tires are balanced. Any advice would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Bob

Sep 10, 2009 | 07:30 PM

test point

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Joined: Mar 2008

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From: Ellijay

Welcome to the forum! ! !

The most obvious issue is tire pressure and brand of tires. These cars are sensitive. You can't discuss such things where they can hear.

Earlier cars had a history of front end bushings and shock bushings problems but by '02 they were much better.

How many miles?

Any abnormal tire wear?

Any 'clunks' involved?

Sep 10, 2009 | 08:45 PM

Robscountach

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Joined: Aug 2009

Posts: 67

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From: Richmond, VA

Also, If you've got 19"s like me, you'll feel most everything. Just ensure the tire pressures are correct (when cold).

Sep 12, 2009 | 01:35 PM

rwspeer

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Steering wheel vibration

My 2002 XKR has 70k miles. There are new tires on it Toyo 245/Z45 18's in front and 255s in back. There are no clunks or noises just a lot of road feel coming through the steering wheel (jiggling of the wheel). What tire pressures (F/R) have worked out the best for these cars?

Thanks again, Bob

Sep 12, 2009 | 01:47 PM

H20boy

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Joined: Mar 2007

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From: Oak Ridge, TN

Welcome to the forums bob.

I have 19s, and as the tires age, the steering wheel will feel more of the road cracks and bumps...its the nature of these cars. Although my car has always had this 'feel' (first thing my mom told me after driving it for the first time...compared to her Lincoln, and trust me, i've had lots of suspension work done in the front), the newer the tires, the less vibration being transmitted to the wheel.

My tire pressures have fallen since I've had the first set of tires, and over 25,000 miles ago... 32 front, 29 rear.

My dealer service guy told me if I wanted more absorption of these bumps, I could drop the front tire pressure more, but since the inner tire wear is already greater than the center and outer areas, any less pressure would only exaggerate this condition...no thanks. Tires are expensive.