Question for the actual mechanics and all-around knowledgeable car guys here. I have encountered a “harmonic” vibration that comes and goes in a 2005 Buick LeSabre limited above 67 mph. The vibration is not constant. We had the tires balanced and a four wheel alignment done two weeks ago. The tires were part of the initial problem but now this other problem persists. The vibration is intermittent, about every five seconds seems to be the pattern. The further down the highway I drive, maybe increasing the temperature on the components, The less intense it seems to be but does not go away. Is this what is known as bearing run out? And what are the quick tests for a guy like me to determine where it’s coming from?
My 68 has something like that and I've tried everything I can think of to correct it with no resolution. Have resigned myself to living with it.
Just found this, seems to be an ongoing problem for years. https://forums.aaca.org/topic/139811-front-bearing-failures-fwd-97-05-park-avenues/
At highway speeds when the vibration is happening, I apply the brake pedal and it does not change anything. The vibration continues.
Front hub bearings on GM FWD cars need to be replaced once they start making noise. I am on my 5th hub bearing on my 98 Riv. I used to buy the Timken brand on Rock auto at 85.00 a pop. Now I just buy the cheapest one I can find because honestly, they all look the same to me. The last one I bought was about 30.00 shipped. It's been about a year and so far so good. The ABS sensor is integral to the bearing. Usually, they start making noise, and then some time after, the ABS light comes on, and I know it's time. Power Stop is the one I used last, https://www.rockauto.com/en/catalog...44,brake+&+wheel+hub,wheel+bearing+&+hub,1636 Jack up the car, and try to wiggle the wheel/tire. If you can feel ANY play, it's time.
Doc, Does the vibration go away when you turn the wheels slightly? Had a Tacoma with a vibration like that, it would go away when the wheels were turned.
I don’t notice it getting less when I turn the wheel one way or the other while driving. At a slower speed I noticed a howl today that almost sounds like a slight tire noise.
Were the tires road force balanced? https://danthetireman.com/blog/article/what-is-road-force-balance
