Vibrations

- Few vibration conditions are caused by the rear axle assembly. Unless there is a good reason to suspect the axle or driveshaft, diagnose Wheels, Tires and Alignment.
- Vibration is a definite concern with modern, high-mileage tires if they are not true both radially and laterally. They are more susceptible to vibration around the limits of radial and lateral runout of the tire and wheel assembly. They also require more accurate balancing. Wheel and tire runout checks, truing and balancing are normally done before axle inspection.
- Sometimes a vibration concern can be corrected by properly rotating or inflating the tires.
- Vibration can be caused by worn or binding universal joints.
- Runout of the axle shaft is an infrequent, but possible, cause of rear end vibration. Check the axle shaft for runout.
- Rear axle universal joint flange runout should be checked as a potential cause of vibration.