Questions and Answers

Honda Accord Has A Steering Vibration Q. Hi, I have a 1998 Honda Accord with 50,000 miles and bought new tires (BF Goodrich) in March. I noticed right away they didn't seem to be a huge improvement over the old ones. Then I noticed some overall vibration and vibration in the steering wheel at 60-65 mph. I took it in for balancing and they said one maybe two tires were slightly out of balance.

The vibration continued so I took it back two more times, each time they said the tires were almost perfectly balanced, yet the vibration continued. Yesterday I went back again and their "tire expert" drove my car saying he could feel nothing and didn't see the steering wheel vibrate. He then threw in that the Goodrich tires have a rougher ride and that could cause the steering wheel vibration.

I find this hard to believe but want to know what I'm talking about when I go back to demand new tires. Other mechanics have told me the steering wheel shouldn't vibrate unless their is a problem. Does this sound like the tires or another problem?

Thank you!!

A. I would try rotating the tires to see if the vibration goes away. If it does, then you'll know for sure it's a bad tire. If it remains, then the steering parts and wheel bearings should be checked to be sure they are good and replace any that are bad.

If all these things check out okay, then tell the "Tire Expert" that the rough ride is not acceptable and you want a different brand of tires.