Questions and Answers

Mitsubishi Galant Steering Vibration Q. Greetings, I truly need some help. I have a 1991 Mitsubishi Galant VR-4, which is a 2.0 liter DOHC turbo. It has approximately 150,000 Miles on it, with P/S, A/C, and cruise control. Recently we have had a problem with shaking in the steering wheel when we hit speeds of 70 mph. My husband has changed the drive shaft, ball joints, rack and pinion, bearings, had the vehicle aligned.

Then we were told that the culprit was something coming from the rear if this shaking was felt in the steering wheel rather than the whole vehicle. So he then changed the brake pads, and had the rotors resurfaced in the rear. Now we hear this like tapping noise when the brakes are applied and yes, the shaking still persists.

Now his next theory is that maybe he should replace the rim, because they could be bent. Bless his heart, I know he really wants to be able to fix this problem himself, but I am just a woman who wants a second opinion. What do you think the culprit could be? Is he on the right track by replacing the rims? We've already replaced the tires before and have had them balanced numerous times as well.

As you can see, I really am in need of some advice as this vehicle is already very costly to fix anything in it, but it's his pride and joy and he's not going to give it up, so pretty please, any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Thank You,
Mayuchey

A. I think he is on the right track. If it was something in the rear, it would be felt in the body. Front suspension, steering components and out of balance wheels or bent rims would be felt through the steering wheel.

I think he should have the wheels put on a high speed wheel balancer. After the wheels are checked, then do a high speed wheel balance and see what happens. Ideally an on the car high speed wheel balance is the best way to go. This balances the tire, wheel, rotor and hub as a complete assembly.