Prado: Steering Wheel Vibration After New Tire Installation

Toyota Prado 150 Series
1

Experiencing steering wheel vibrations, unusual noises, or a pull to one side after fitting new tires can indicate an issue with wheel balance, alignment, or tire condition. This guide outlines troubleshooting steps to resolve these issues, specifically in the context of upgrading to all-terrain tires.

Problem

After installing new BF Goodrich A/T KO2 tires (size 265/65R17) on a 2013 Prado, the following issues were observed at speeds above 100km/h:

  • Steering wheel vibrates.
  • Vehicle pulls to the left.
  • Increased “slack” in the steering.
  • Irregular noise, fluctuating in frequency.

Solution

  1. Inspect Tires for Defects: Carefully examine each tire for bulges or deformities, which could indicate internal damage.
  2. Rebalance Wheels: Ensure the wheels are correctly balanced. If vibration persists after rebalancing, consider that the tires might be out of round. An out-of-round tire can be detected on a balancer.
  3. Check Wheel Alignment: Verify that the wheel alignment is within the correct specifications. Incorrect alignment can cause the vehicle to pull to one side and contribute to uneven tire wear.
  4. Rotate Tires: Rotating the tires can help identify if the issue is related to a specific tire. If the vibration or noise changes after rotation, it suggests the problem lies with one of the tires.
  5. Road Test with a Technician: Have a technician perform a road test with you to experience the issue firsthand. This can help them diagnose the problem more accurately. If they are hesitant, request a test drive in a similar vehicle with the same tires to compare.
  6. Seek Second Opinion: If the original installer cannot resolve the issue after multiple attempts, consider taking the vehicle to a different tire shop for a second opinion.
  7. Check Tire Manufacturing Date: Verify the tire manufacturing date to ensure the tires are not old stock.
  8. Inspect Rims: Check the rims for any damage or deformities.

Relevant Parts

  • Tires: BF Goodrich A/T KO2, size 265/65R17

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