Road Test

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2009 Dodge Caliber. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: If a Noise & Vibration Analyzer is available, use it to diagnosis the issue during the road test.

NOTE: If the vehicle has been sitting for an extended period of time it is recommended to drive to warm the tires. This process could eliminate flat spots that can cause vibration.

Road test vehicle on a smooth road at and near the designated speed where legal speed limits allow. Lightly place hands on steering wheel at the 10:00 and 2:00 positions and observe for:

Steering wheel oscillation: clockwise/counterclockwise
Steering wheel high frequency movement: rapid vibration up and down
Seat high frequency movement: rapid vibration up and down

To rule out vibrations due to brakes or powertrain:

Lightly apply brakes at the designated speed; if vibration occurs or is enhanced, vibration is likely due to a brake concern. Refer to Brakes/Hydraulic/Mechanical/ROTOR, Brake - Diagnosis and Testing .
Shift transmission into neutral while vibration is occurring; if vibration is eliminated, vibration is likely due to a powertrain concern. Refer to DIFFERENTIAL AND DRIVELINE .