Steering Column Repair: 2005 Camry Steering wheel wabble, intermediate shaft, wheel balancing

Question
Douglas:
Don't know if you are familiar with this problem, but my Camry steering wheel wabbles a bit. I know that Camry has had some problems with steering column noise when turning, but don't know if this problem is related to a problem with the Intermediate shaft. In any event, can you provide any insight into the cause of my problem, and how it can be remedied. Hope you can help.

Answer
Hi Nicholas:
It's important to know at what speed this occurs.  If it's only at high speeds (55 +) then it'sa wheel balancing problem.  If it's at lower speeds (20-45) it's a tire problem.
Typically, when a steering wheel wobbles, the cause is a broken belt ion one of the front tires.  the way to determine if that's true is to rotate the tires two at a time.  First move the left front to the left rear and then drive it again.  If it's still there, then do the same with  the right.  Once you remedy the wobble, the last tire you moved off the front is the culprit.

I do not believe a steering component will cause a wobble.  It will cause free play and oversteering, but not a wobble.

Good luck
Doug