1. Imbalanced Tires: Incorrectly balanced tires can cause shake and vibration felt through the steering wheel at varying speeds, commonly during acceleration or at specific speeds.
2. Wheel Alignment Issues: Misalignment can lead to tire scrubbing, which can result in vibrations through the steering wheel, particularly during acceleration or when turning.
3. Worn Suspension Components: Worn ball joints, tie rods, or control arm bushings can result in play or looseness in the suspension, causing wheel shimmy or shaking at low speeds.
4. Brake Rotor Warping: Warped or uneven brake rotors can cause vibrations due to uneven surface contact during braking, felt as shaking in the steering wheel.
5. Steering System Components: Worn or damaged rack and pinion, power steering pump, steering linkage, or U-joints can lead to play and vibrations felt in the steering wheel.
6. Engine Mount Wear: Worn engine or transmission mounts can allow excess engine movement, transmitting vibrations to the steering wheel at various speeds.
7. Driveline Issues: Sometimes shaking can be caused by driveline problems like worn CV joints (in vehicles with front-wheel drive) or a faulty driveshaft (rear-wheel drive vehicles).
8. Wheel Bearing Problems: Worn wheel bearings can cause the steering wheel to shake or vibrate at certain speeds, especially when turning or changing lanes.
9. Loose Bolts or Nuts: Make sure all lug nuts, bolts, and other fasteners are properly tightened.
10. Road Surface: Shaking can also occur due to rough or uneven road surfaces, especially at low speeds.
If you experience shaking or vibration in your steering wheel at low speeds, it is recommended to have your vehicle inspected and diagnosed by a professional mechanic to accurately determine and resolve the underlying issue.