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2020 CLA 250 Steering Vibration at Highway Speeds & Slight Pull

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Chris P. · rep 0 · May 25, 3:06 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250

Hey guys,

I've got a 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250, and I've been noticing a couple of issues with the steering lately. When I get up to highway speeds (around 60-70 mph), I feel a distinct vibration in the steering wheel. It's not constant, but it's definitely there and quite annoying.

Also, it feels like the car has a slight pull to the right. I have to constantly correct the steering to keep it going straight. I've checked my tire pressures, and they're all correct according to the door jamb sticker. The tires themselves look good, no obvious bulges or excessive wear.

Could this be an alignment issue, or something else related to the suspension or steering components? Any thoughts on what might be causing this on a relatively new car?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 3:06 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Steering vibration at highway speeds and a vehicle pulling to one side on your 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 are classic indicators of issues related to your wheels, tires, or suspension/steering alignment. It's important to address these promptly for safety and to prevent further wear.

Common Causes:

  1. Wheel Imbalance: This is the most common cause of steering wheel vibration at specific speeds. If a wheel loses its balance weight or if a new tire was improperly balanced, it will cause vibration.
  2. Tire Issues:
    • Uneven Tire Wear: Can cause both vibration and pulling.
    • Damaged Tire: A bent rim, a tire with a separated belt, or a bulge can cause vibration and handling issues.
    • Tire Conicity: A manufacturing defect in a tire that causes it to pull to one side, even if balanced and aligned.
  3. Wheel Alignment: Incorrect wheel alignment (caster, camber, or toe) is a primary cause of a vehicle pulling to one side and can also contribute to uneven tire wear.
  4. Suspension Component Wear: Worn or damaged suspension components such as control arm bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends, or strut mounts can lead to loose steering, pulling, and vibrations.
  5. Brake Issues: While less common for continuous highway vibration, a seized brake caliper or dragging brake pad could cause a pull and potentially some vibration.

Troubleshooting Steps:

  1. Tire Inspection: Have all four tires visually inspected for bulges, cuts, or uneven wear patterns. Rotate your tires (if not directional) to see if the vibration or pull changes location or intensity.
  2. Wheel Inspection: Check for bent rims, especially if you've hit any potholes recently.
  3. Professional Diagnosis: This type of issue usually requires professional equipment.

When to See a Shop:

It's highly recommended to take your CLA 250 to a reputable shop that specializes in alignments and suspension work. They should perform the following:

  1. Road Force Balance: This specialized balancing machine can detect tire conicity and other internal tire issues that standard balancing cannot.
  2. Full Wheel Alignment Check: A four-wheel alignment will measure all angles and adjust them to factory specifications.
  3. Suspension and Steering Component Inspection: A thorough inspection of all bushings, ball joints, tie rods, and other steering/suspension parts for wear or damage.

Addressing these issues will restore your vehicle's handling, improve safety, and prevent premature tire and suspension component wear.

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