Wheels and Tires: Testing and Inspection

TIRE AND WHEEL VIBRATION

Tire and wheel imbalance, runout and tire road force variation can cause vehicles to exhibit steering wheel vibration and/or seat vibration.

VISUAL INSPECTION

Visual inspection of the vehicle is recommended prior to road testing or performing any other procedure. Raise and support the vehicle. Maintenance

Inspect for the following:

- Verify correct (OEM) wheel and tire, as well as presence of wheel weights.
- Inspect tires and wheels for damage, mud packing and unusual wear; correct as necessary.
- Check and adjust tire air pressure to the pressure listed on the label attached to the driver's door opening.

ROAD TEST

NOTE: If a Noise & Vibration Analyzer is available, use it to diagnosis the issue during the road test.

NOTE: If the vehicle has been sitting for an extended period of time it is recommended to drive to warm the tires. This process could eliminate flat spots that can cause vibration.

Road test vehicle on a smooth road at and near the designated speed where legal speed limits allow. Lightly place hands on steering wheel at the 10:00 and 2:00 positions and observe for:

- Steering wheel oscillation: clockwise/counterclockwise
- Steering wheel high frequency movement: rapid vibration up and down
- Seat high frequency movement: rapid vibration up and down

To rule out vibrations due to brakes or powertrain:

- Lightly apply brakes at the designated speed; if vibration occurs or is enhanced, vibration is likely due to a brake concern.
- Shift transmission into neutral while vibration is occurring; if vibration is eliminated, vibration is likely due to a powertrain concern.

TIRE/WHEEL BALANCE AND ROAD FORCE VARIATION

NOTE: If wheel balance equipment is capable of testing tire road force variation and the tire/wheel assemblies are within specification, place the tires with the greater road force variation on the rear of the vehicle.

Balance the tire and wheel assemblies as necessary, and if wheel balance equipment is capable, also test for tire and wheel runout and road force variation following the wheel balancer manufacturer's instructions and using the information listed in Tire And Wheel Balance Service and Repair. Repeat the road test above to verify the vibration is repaired.