When driving around 45 MPH a front-end vibration starts?

2006 CHRYSLER 300
150,000 MILES • 3.5L • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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CHARLES WILBUR
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around 45 miles per hour a front end vibration starts and when i hit the brakes it gets worse and then it goes away after a bit - there is also some rattling when i hit the brakes.
Jun 19, 2024 at 2:08 PM
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TY ANDERSON
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There are several parts that can cause vibration at 45 MPH. Loose steering and suspension parts can cause this. Problems with the front tires or out of balanced tires can cause vibration. Bent wheels can cause vibration also.
Warped front brake rotors can cause this too but usually only presents when the brake pedal is applied when driving usually at higher speeds. You'll also feel it in the steering wheel when braking but not if rear brake rotors are warped.
You can try inspecting the tires for any damage or unusual wear. You could rotate the tires front to back to see if that changes anything and if it does then the problem is with the tires or wheels (rims).
While you have the vehicle off the ground check for loose steering or suspension parts.

I would start with the brake rotors first based off your explanation.

Let us know what you find.
Jun 19, 2024 at 3:28 PM
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CHARLES WILBUR
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We can eliminate warped rotors, bent wheels and damaged tires, what order should i check concerning suspension parts and bushings?
Jun 19, 2024 at 4:06 PM
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TY ANDERSON
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When you have the tires off the ground you can check and inspect the tie rod ends, ball joints and control arm bushings.
Check for any movement in these parts. You shouldn't have any play in the inner or outer title rod ends. No play in the ball joints either. Control arm bushings shouldn't be split, broken or separated.
Jun 19, 2024 at 9:25 PM
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CHARLES WILBUR
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Other than visual inspections are there ways to manipulate these parts to find play in them?
Jun 20, 2024 at 6:45 AM
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TY ANDERSON
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Here are some YouTube videos going over how to check these components.
For the control arm bushing I would raise the vehicle off the ground and using a pry bar to flex the control arm bushings to look for play, large splitting or separation.

https://youtu.be/6M2D_XtuXZQ?si=7-qKwCcGeFtNwy5s

https://youtu.be/brI2feYiEi8?si=hZcI-850DOYr9kh8
Jun 20, 2024 at 7:36 AM