Propeller Shaft Vibration

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2017 RAM 2500 HD. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Out-of-round tires or wheels that are out of balance will cause a low frequency vibration.

Driveline vibration can also be caused by loose or damaged engine mounts.

Driveshaft vibration increases with vehicle speed. A vibration that occurs at a specific speed range, is not usually caused by an out of balance driveshaft. Defective universal joints or an incorrect driveshaft angle are usually the cause of such a vibration.

DRIVELINE VIBRATION

CONDITION	POSSIBLE CAUSE	CORRECTION
Propeller Shaft Noise	1) Undercoating or other foreign material on the shaft.	1) Clean the exterior of the driveshaft and wash with solvent.
	2) Loose companion flange bolts.	2) Install new bolts and tighten to the proper torque specifications.
	3) Loose or bent U-joint yoke or excessive runout.	3) Install a new yoke.
	4) Incorrect driveline angularity.	4) Measure and correct the driveline angles.
	5) Rear spring center bolt not seated.	5) Loosen the spring U-bolts and seat the center bolt.
	6) Worn U-joint bearings.	6) Install a new U-joint.
	7) Driveshaft damaged or out of balance.	7) Install a new driveshaft.
	8) Broken rear spring.	8) Install a new rear spring.
	9) Excessive runout or unbalanced condition.	9) Re-index the driveshaft, test, and evaluate.
	10) Excessive drive pinion gear shaft runout.	10) Re-index the driveshaft and evaluate.
	11) Excessive axle yoke deflection.	11) Inspect and replace the yoke if necessary.
	12) Excessive transfer case runout.	12) Inspect and repair as necessary.
Universal Joint Noise	1) Loose companion flange bolts.	1) Install new bolts and tighten to the proper torque specifications.
Universal Joint Noise	2) Lack of lubrication.	2) Replace U-joints as necessary.