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Steering Wheel Vibration at Highway Speeds on 2017 Mazda6 Touring

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Ryan M. · rep 0 · May 22, 4:49 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2017 Mazda6 Touring

Hey everyone,

I've got a 2017 Mazda6 Touring with about 75,000 miles on it, and I've started experiencing a noticeable vibration in the steering wheel, especially when I'm driving at highway speeds, typically between 60-75 mph. It's not constant, but it's definitely there and quite annoying.

I recently had my tires rotated and balanced about 5,000 miles ago, but the vibration seems to have started or gotten worse since then. Could it be a re-balancing issue, or something more serious like a bent rim or even an alignment problem? The car doesn't pull to one side, just the vibration.

Any insights from other Mazda6 owners would be great!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 4:49 AM

0

ClearTheCode admin answer:

Steering wheel vibration at highway speeds is a common issue that can be caused by several factors related to your wheels, tires, or suspension. Given your 2017 Mazda6 Touring has 75,000 miles, wear on certain components is possible.

Common Causes of Steering Wheel Vibration:

  1. Wheel Imbalance: This is the most frequent cause. Even a small imbalance can cause vibration, especially at higher speeds. Weights can fall off, or tires can wear unevenly, requiring re-balancing.
  2. Tire Issues:
    • Uneven Tire Wear: Cupping, feathering, or flat spots can cause vibration.
    • Damaged Tire: A bulge, separation, or internal damage in the tire.
    • Out-of-Round Tire: The tire itself isn't perfectly round.
  3. Bent Rim: Hitting a pothole or curb can bend a wheel rim, leading to vibration.
  4. Brake Rotor Runout: If the vibration occurs primarily when braking, especially at highway speeds, warped brake rotors could be the cause.
  5. Worn Suspension Components: Worn tie rod ends, ball joints, control arm bushings, or wheel bearings can contribute to vibration, though these often present with other symptoms like clunking or loose steering.
  6. Loose Wheel Nuts: While less common after recent service, always worth a quick check.

Steps to Diagnose:

  1. Re-balance Wheels: Start with the simplest and most common cause. Have all four wheels re-balanced by a reputable shop. Ensure they check for bent rims during this process.
  2. Inspect Tires: Visually inspect all tires for any bulges, cuts, or unusual wear patterns. Check tire pressure.
  3. Check for Brake Pulsation: Pay attention if the vibration worsens significantly when you apply the brakes. If so, brake rotors are a likely suspect.

When to See a Shop:

  • If re-balancing doesn't resolve the issue, or if the shop identifies a bent rim or damaged tire, professional repair or replacement is necessary.
  • If the vibration persists and is accompanied by noises, steering looseness, or pulling, a comprehensive suspension and steering system inspection is warranted. Ignoring persistent vibration can lead to premature wear of suspension components and affect vehicle safety and handling.
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