1998 Buick Regal noise/ vibration

Tiny
JJANKE22
  • MEMBER
  • 1998 BUICK REGAL
  • 6 CYL
  • AWD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 15,200 MILES
My 98 Regal has been very dependable. At speeds in excess of 65 MPH, when the steering wheel is slightly turned toward the driver's side, there is a vibration and and intermittent hum that lasts 3-5 seconds and continues in that pattern until the wheel is straightened. Nothing with slight turns towards the passenger side. Belle Tire said it was the tires and I had 4 new Goodyear Fuel Max put on, but the problem persists. They checked the wheel bearing hubs and that wasn't the problem. It is quite annoying and want to make sure damage isn't occurring. It is only at 65 MPH +. Any ideas? I want to get it addressed, but I kind of want to tell them what to look for also. Any info would be greatly appreciated. Thanks so much.
Friday, March 12th, 2010 AT 7:05 PM

5 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
I need to understand. Does the steering wheel have to be turned for this to happen at 65mph?

Let me know.

Joe
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Tuesday, March 16th, 2010 AT 7:20 AM
Tiny
JJANKE22
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Yes, only when the wheel is slightly turned towards the driver's side, maybe 1/2 inch. Once straightened, the vibration and hum sounds disappears. It was already diagnosed as not being the wheel bearing, and the tires are brand new. It's a head-scratcher, first time for me with something like this. Thanks for your interest.
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Tuesday, March 16th, 2010 AT 9:00 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
This is an interesting one. If the wheel bearings are good, then we have to check some things that are not usually a problem. Have you made sure the brake pads are good and the sensor isn't touching the rotor? Also, chech the backing plate behind the rotor to make sure it isn't rusted or bent and rubbing the rotor. Finally, check the inside of the wheel to make sure nothing is rubbing. I have seen calipers come loose and cause the caliper to rub the wheel resulting in similar problems.

Let me know what you find.
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Tuesday, March 16th, 2010 AT 11:20 AM
Tiny
JJANKE22
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Well, you hit the nail on the head. I took it in for a closer look and it was found to have a defective driver's side bearing problem which was ultimately causing the issue. I will get that taken care of. Thank you again for your time and insight.
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Tuesday, March 16th, 2010 AT 12:53 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
I had a feeling that is what it was. I'm glad you found it. Take care of yourself and let us know if you have questions in the future.

Thanks for using 2carpros. Com

Joe
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Tuesday, March 16th, 2010 AT 1:22 PM

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