Q: Slight vibration and a humming noise coming from steering column and the front wheels

asked by on April 25, 2017

I am experiencing issues in the steering column and the front left wheel. When driving at a speed between 30 - 80 mph the steering wheel develops a slight vibration. The vibration occurs when the steering wheel is at a straight forward position or at any position to the left of the steering wheel, as soon as I turn the vehicle slightly to the right the vibration and humming disappears. In the past I have had a warning light stating service advance track but the light does not provide any type of code with in the EC you after it disappears. I am trying to pin down the issue to either the advanced steering controls needing to be reprogrammed or the wheel bearing needs to be replaced

My car has 95000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Based on the symptoms you are describing, you may have a wheel bearing that has developed some free play and may also have dried out. This can cause both a vibration and a humming noise. If you have altered the size of the tires or wheels in any way and the tires are wearing improperly, this can also result in a traction control light, a humming noise, and vibration in the steering wheel. I would recommend having your truck inspected by a qualified professional to determine the cause of this issue. Consider YourMechanic as this inspection can be done from your home or office.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Can Ignition Problems Cause Engine Misfires?
Faulty ignition system (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-can-problems-with-the-ignition-system-cause-misfiring_2) components are among the leading causes of engine misfires. Parts such as spark plugs, spark plug wires and boots, and ignition coils are highly stressed by high voltage and a high underhood temperature environment. While most...
Radiator cap needs replacing.
If you have a white residue building up just below the cap and you have to add coolant frequently, this could be the issue. The cooling system and cap need to be pressure tested to ensure the system is not...
Fuse keeps blowing.
Hi, it sounds like you may have a injector that is shorted to ground or an injector cable that is shorted. You can test them with an ohm meter. I would suggest getting a mechanic, such as one from YourMechanic,...
I'm smelling gas after I drive everytime
I did not seem to find any technical bulletins for this issue. I would first recommend not driving the vehicle until you have the system checked to see what kind of fuel leak or vapor leak you are having. If...
Fuel pump problem
Hello. Code P0089 is the code for an issue withe the vehicle's fuel pressure regulator. In this instance it appears that the code refers the fuel pressure regulator mounted in the engine bay, on the vehicle's high pressure fuel pump....
Going at 20 km/h or more the front right wheel locks up what can be the cause
Hi there. If this occurred right after an accident, then it may have damaged the wheel speed sensor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/wheel-speed-sensor-replacement). If you have the spare tire on the vehicle then this can occur also. Usually when this problem starts happening it...
My car is overheating - 2007 GMC Yukon XL 2500
As you may know, overheating can be caused by many different things such as a clogged radiator, a faulty thermostat, a bad coolant fan switch, or potentially a blown head gasket. The heater will usually not work properly when you...
Need wire connection details for 73 F100 ignition switch -Black, Yellow, Pink, Red w/Blue, & two Red w/Green on one terminal
Hi there. Unfortunately, we are unable to attach images or files to this Q & A section, so we're not able to assist you in this manner. I would suggest searching online for a wiring schematic for your 73 Ford...
How long will a diagnostic take on a car that has no power
Hi Erica. Thanks for contacting us tonight. It really depends on the root source of the no power issue that would determine how long a diagnostic inspection would take. Our professional mechanics always try to gain as much information about...

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Toyota Prius
Since Since they introduced the Prius, the very first mass-market hybrid, Toyota has been leading the auto industry in hybrid vehicles, and continues to do so in 2012. For this model year, the Prius saw some exciting new options, including...
A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 BMW 5-Series
BMW BMW has built a reputation for refined engineering, powerful performance and excellent fit and function. That’s exactly what you’ll find with the 2012 BMW 5-Series sedans. Composed and powerful, they provide a range of price points, features and capabilities...
2012 Honda Odyssey vs. 2012 Mazda 5: Which One Should I Buy?
Passenger vans may be one of the most maligned classes of vehicles. From being called "Mom-mobiles" to being mocked extensively by those who have not experienced the comfort and ease of getting into and out of a van, vans just...