QuestionI have an 02 sante fe lx 2.7 with 50k. I have a vibration problem felt only in the steering wheel between 35 and 40 mph. Attempted corrective measures so far: tire rotation, 4-wheel balance, frt end check- minor wear( replaced both frt ball joints and one tie-rod end), had frt axles checked for run-out; no problem, struts good. Vibration is substantial and very annoying. Any guesses or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
AnswerFront end vibration is typically caused by improper wheel balance, but the fact that you say it occurs at 35-40 MPH suggests that there may be an issue with your front caster. There may also be an issue with one of the tires being out of round. If you haven't done so yet, you should take the car to a good suspension and steering shop or the dealer and ask them to investigate the issue. If you've already done this, you should probably return to the shop in question and explain that they haven't repaired the condition and that you expect them to fully repair the problem prior to returning the vehicle to you. Part of good diagnosis and repair is a test drive once repairs are complete to verify the problem has been fixed.
In the meantime, answers to the following may assist in determining the issue or developing a plan to find the issue:
1. Did the vibration change at all when the tires were rotated?
2. Did the technician check the wheels and tires for runout or out-of-round problems when they were balanced?
3. Were the front alignment specifications checked or was an alignment done?
4. Has the suspension ever been damaged in a collision?
