Sensation of rumble strips?

JHOYT

MEMBER
2016 JEEP WRANGLER
4WD
AUTOMATIC
96,000 MILES

Hi, I've been experiencing a sensation I can only describe as akin to driving over rumble strips when accelerating at mid-speeds (40-55MPH) on smooth roads. Can feel the shudder in the steering wheel, though it's not overtly pronounced, and the rumbling is quieter than when going over actual rumble strips (though still obviously audible). The vehicle is probably due for an all-around workup, and I need new tires, but since this is intermittent the mechanic hasn't been able to pinpoint anything specifically and I would like to start somewhere specific. Any ideas?

1 Reply

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
47,452 POSTS

Tires can cause the problem; I would run your hands over the tread to see if you can feel irregularities in the composition of the tire. Also, can you tell me if you feel or hear the problem from the front, rear or midship? Is there a chance you can upload a short video of the problem in your response? I have seen CV axles or transfer cases cause this as well. Does changing it from 2wd to 4wd make a difference?