Why is my car vibrating violently?
I have a 2009 Toyota Corolla LE. About a year ago (this is still happening) my car
started shaking at certain speeds (60mph - 80mph) The entire car will vibrate roughly
at these speeds, especially if I have a passenger. The passenger seat shakes
insanely. I've had the motor mounts checked by the dealer, I've replaced all 4 tires, re-
balanced. Got an alignment. Replaced all 4 rims. I cannot for the life of me figure out
what is causing this. It has been driving me crazy for a year now. Anyone got any
suggestions?
Tom is right...as a starting place. But to be as severe and violent as you describe.... gotta be more. The interesting part is "especially if I have a passenger" .. that added weight ... what 150 lbs or so?... to effect it is really baffling. A 2300 lb car and add 150lbs to cause, or maybe not cause, but influence this is a genuine mystery. Start with Tom's suggestions, have a look and make sure the shocks and struts are not leaking oil. Then Get a helper and the two of you push down with all your weight on the rear of the car. Release. The car should go down when you push, come back up and stay there. No bounce-bounce. Then do the same for front. Push down, allow to come back up on it's own, and stay there. Please come back and let us know what happens. Your Corolla has a flaw that is exceedingly rare, a superior car in engineering, design, and build. I would really like to help you get to the bottom of this.
Only thing you didn't say was transmission mount(s) Granted, it's a transaxle and everything is bolted together.. but does it run well? Shift well? I gotta admit bwilson you have me intrigued.
FordNut - Sorry it has taken me so long to reply to your post. I have been very very busy. My car still has this issue. The shocks and struts are normal and respond as they should. No Transmission problems that I know of.
My purchased new 2008 Corolla Sport has 248,000 miles on it and the only trauma to the body was hitting a coyote at 60 mph. About two weeks ago I started getting a mild vibration in the steering wheel at about 60 mph but when I applied the brakes, it went from mild to extreme. Struts not leaking, no excessive play in CV Joints, all lug nuts tight, all tires balanced about 6 weeks ago, no play in steering, all brake pads & shoes good. Problem was the bottom driver side alignment pin on the disk brake was seized. Test drive up to 70 mph with hard braking shows problem solved.
Maybe, this will help. I have a 2003 Toyota Corolla and my car was shaking as well. Later, after checking with my mechanic , my back right wheel bearing was bad. It was not rotating properly therefore it was causing a serious vibration and shaking. Shortly after it was repaired, there was an unbelievable peace and better acceleration.
