Shimmy when driving at high speeds 75 to 80 mph

1999 CADILLAC DEVILLE
106,000 MILES • 4.6L • V8 • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
MROULET1
  • MEMBER
  • 79 POSTS
That happen about every 4 seconds. So it will ride smooth at first then every 4 to 5 seconds it will happen.
Nov 22, 2019 at 3:24 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,236 POSTS
Hi,

Does this happen at any other speeds? Have you inspected the tires as well as have tire balance checked? Also, when you feel the shimmy, is it in the steering?

Let me know.

Joe
Nov 22, 2019 at 1:38 PM
Avatar
JIS001
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 3,412 POSTS
Hi, just wanted to jump in here really quick. If the vibration only happens when you accelerate at those speeds then I would suspect bad axles. When the inner joints start to bind it will cause the vibration and majority of the time it happens only on highway speeds.
Nov 22, 2019 at 2:49 PM
Avatar
MROULET1
  • MEMBER
  • 79 POSTS
Yea, it’s in the steering.
Nov 23, 2019 at 3:16 AM
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,236 POSTS
Have you had the tire balance checked? Also, it could be an axle joint starting to go bad. Does it happen regardless if you are accelerating, maintaining speed, coasting, or braking?
Nov 23, 2019 at 9:16 AM
Avatar
MROULET1
  • MEMBER
  • 79 POSTS
It just happens at those speeds and the faster I go the worse it gets. I work with tires, I don’t believe it’s a balance issue.
Nov 25, 2019 at 2:50 AM
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,236 POSTS
Okay, then I have to suspect an issue with a steering component or one of the axle joints is going bad. Have you had the chance to check those components? Also, are there any sounds associated that may indicate a bearing issue?

Here are a few links you may find helpful regarding axle joints:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-a-cv-joint-works

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/symptoms-of-a-bad-cv-axle-joint

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/replace-cv-axle

Joe
Nov 25, 2019 at 10:27 AM
Avatar
MROULET1
  • MEMBER
  • 79 POSTS
Just want to thank you for the help. It was just tires. Just put them on yesterday and it rides like a Cadillac!
Nov 30, 2019 at 12:24 AM
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.
Ask a Free Question
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.