Resonance Vibration At Front & Steering

[DaveJH]

Mk2 TDi 150bhp 120k miles, experiences vibration (some strong) at front & steering when driving of roads with slightly corrugated surfaces.  

 

Problem only occurs on slightly corrugated surfaces at speeds >50 mph and vibration is independent of acceleration, overrun, left or right turns, but increases with braking.

 

Problem occurred both before and after rebalancing of all wheels.  Tyre seem to be in good condition  ( < 20k miles) and pressures correct.  Front discs and pads replaced within last 10k miles.

 

Please note that the problem does not occur on smooth or undulating roads or genuinely rough roads,  nor when braking on such roads.

 

The question is where to start?  Damper/shocks/ drive shafts/stiff CVJs, bushes/bearings.

 

Any advice appreciated

 

DaveJH

[BrianH]

There has been other posts with wierd problems like this that seem to relate to certain tyres. Whilst the tyres may be in good condition it seems down to the tread pattern that can cause this. What tyres are you using? Make and type?

[viperclive]

Had the same problem, turned out to be the inner track rod ends, changed both for about £30. Parts from Ebay and then don't forget to track er up afterwards.

[DaveJH]

BrianH: Tyres Michelin Primacy 3. 215/55R16 97W. 2.5-3.0mm tread

 

Viperclive: thanks for your experience. Inner track rod end suggestion interesting- had not thought of that.

 

DaveJH

[DaveJH]

BrianH. As I wrote the info on my tyres, I seemed to recall

that the tyres were not particularly old. A quick check in my records show that they are 14 months old, have done 15000 miles, and are already down to 2.5mm. I have used Michelin tyres on the Galaxy for years, and got 30000 out of the last set of Primacy. Clearly the newer Primacy3 are not quite the same composition, I have not noticed any change in grip but they have obviously left more rubber on the road. Continentals next time then.

DaveJH

[BrianH]

Its not an age related thing - although the tyres you have I wouldn't expect to cause the problem, It may be worth getting the wheel alignment looked at specifically if there is any unusual wear of the tyres - If your considering the track rod ends inner or outer then you'd obviously want to get it checked afterwards anyway.

I've known worn wishbone bushes to cause dreadful handling and noise due to them throwing the alignment off although when i've had this on other cars the front end tends to feel lighter than it should.

[viperclive]

The other thing to change and the easiest is the anti roll bar bushes, mine looked ok on the car but after removing them they we're well shot, I've replaced the complete lot, both sides, everything so now got years of trouble free motoring mmmmm maybe!