What Causes My Car to Vibrate at High Speeds?

1. Wheel Balancing Problems

One of the most common causes of vibration at high speed is unbalanced wheels. When the weight of your tires and wheels isn’t evenly distributed, your vehicle may shake — especially once you reach highway speeds.

Common signs:

• Vibration in the steering wheel (usually above 100 km/h)

• Uneven tire wear

• A “humming” sound while driving

Solution:
Have your wheels professionally balanced and aligned. At Leenoe Motors, we use advanced balancing machines to ensure your tires spin smoothly.

2. Worn or Damaged Tires

Old or unevenly worn tires can cause your car to shake, especially if the tread is damaged or uneven. Driving on worn tires not only causes vibration but also increases your risk of blowouts or poor braking performance.

Tip:
Regularly inspect your tires for bald spots, cracks, or bulges — and rotate them every 8,000–10,000 km.

3. Suspension or Steering Issues

Your suspension system (including shocks, struts, and control arms) keeps your ride stable. When these parts wear out or loosen, they can cause vibrations — especially when driving on uneven roads or at high speed.

Signs include:

• Vibrations when hitting bumps

• Uneven tire wear

• Drifting or pulling to one side

Solution:
Schedule a suspension inspection at your local auto workshop to identify worn components before they affect your steering control.

4. Brake System Problems

If your car vibrates when braking from high speeds, you may have warped brake rotors. This causes the brake pads to grip unevenly, creating a noticeable shaking in the steering wheel or brake pedal.

Fix:
Visit Leenoe Motors for a brake inspection and rotor resurfacing. Ignoring this can reduce your stopping power and put your safety at risk.

5. Engine or Drivetrain Issues

Sometimes, the problem goes deeper. Misfiring spark plugs, worn engine mounts, or drivetrain imbalances can all cause vibration. These issues usually come with other warning signs like reduced power, strange noises, or poor fuel economy.

Solution:
Book a diagnostic test to identify the root cause early — it’s the best way to avoid costly repairs.

When Should You Be Concerned?

You should take action immediately if:

• The vibration gets worse over time

• The steering feels loose or shaky

• The vibration is accompanied by unusual noises or smells

• The car feels unstable at high speed

Driving with these symptoms can lead to serious damage or accidents.

Professional Diagnostics and Repairs in Johannesburg

At Leenoe Motors, we specialize in diagnosing and fixing high-speed vibration issues. Our services include:

• Wheel balancing and alignment

• Suspension and steering repair

• Brake inspections and rotor resurfacing

• Engine diagnostics and tune-ups

Our certified mechanics use advanced equipment to ensure your car runs smoothly, safely, and efficiently.

Book a Vehicle Inspection Today

Don’t ignore that vibration — your car is trying to tell you something!

📍 Visit us at: 4 Shaft Street, Westgate, Johannesburg
📞 Call: 073 900 6493 /010 065 1713
💻 Email address: info@leenoemotors.com

Leenoe Motors — your trusted partner for vehicle repairs, diagnostics, and maintenance in Johannesburg.