Symptoms
- Steering wheel shakes specifically when going over bumps or rough pavement
- Smooth and stable on flat, even roads
- Noise sometimes accompanies the shimmy
Likely causes
- CommonWorn shocks or struts unable to control wheel movement over bumpsWeak dampers let the wheel bounce and shimmy when disturbed by a bump instead of absorbing it smoothly.
- PossibleWorn control arm bushings or ball jointsPlay in these components lets the wheel shift when hitting a bump, causing a shimmy.
- PossibleWorn wheel bearingA bearing with play can shimmy when disturbed by an uneven surface.
What to do
- Note that the shimmy specifically happens over bumps and not on smooth pavement, which helps rule out a simple balance issue.
- Check shocks and struts for wear using a bounce test and visual inspection for leaks.
- Have a mechanic check for play in ball joints, control arm bushings, and wheel bearings with the car on a lift.
- Replace whichever worn component is identified.
- Test drive over similar bumps to confirm the shimmy is resolved.
Tools and parts
Shocks or strutsSearch: “shocks or struts for [your car model]”
When to call a pro
This pattern points toward suspension wear rather than simple balancing, so a shop inspection on a lift is the most reliable way to find the cause.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.