Steering wheel shakes

[Driver8]

I agree with X5Andrew...it might not be mandatory, but it makes darn good sense to do an alignment with every tire change. Not just any alignment will do; it should be done by a BMW dealer or a BMW specialist who uses the factory alignment specs and weighting procedures. I personally think the $75 or so spent on a good OEM alignment is a better investment than the same amount spent on a tire warranty, IMO.

(But hey, what do I know? I also happen to be one of those mavericks who still rotate tires regularly despite what the manual says...of course, this is the same manual that recommends against changing transmission fluid because BMW uses "lifetime fill" fluid...)

Mike

[tcn2k]

UPDATE: It was the balance of the tires. The tire guy rotated one of the tires and notice it was off by quite a bit. Not sure how it was like that in the first place, they either did it incorrectly or the weight fell off. In any case it's smooth now and the drive is fantastic again.

I then asked about how alignment plays into steering wheel shaking. He said it really doesn't. Then I pointed at the sign in his shop for customer to read about alignment, and one of the item states: "vibrating or shimmy of the steer wheel" maybe a cause for needing alignment. He smiled and said, it really doesn't. If it still shakes after you balance your tires, we will need to check other lower control arms, bushing, rotors etc. on your car.

[rayxi]

tcn2k: Glad to hear that you got it fixed.

Originally Posted by X5Andrew

I have learned from past that it is best to have an alignment with every tire change. I know it is not called for, but it is a good idea for the cost of it.

Perhaps from a timing (mileage) perspective but certainly not from a cause and effect perspective.

[zypheR911]

Same thing happened to me when I had winters on, I would be going around 40mph+ and as soon as you tap or hold break, stearing wheel starts shaking like crazy, controlable tho.

Turns out it was the wheels, Summers gave me no problems