Front Steering Vibration with a Specific Pattern 2008 Nissan Pathfinder

[afavre]

Just searched and was told it was not permitted, so apologies if not a new post.

80000 miles, 2008 Nissan Pathfinder. No problems in front end. Everything is original, no accidents, no bent rims, no replacement of any normal wear items yet except for tires. They have approximately 15,000 miles and honestly am not sure they have been rotated but once in that time.

Took to dealership for another issue (wiper jet replacement). As a courtesy they rotated tires, drove it home about an hour, no noticeable problems.

4 days later, drive on the interstate and there is a specific vibration. It is not affecting steering but is enough to visibly shake the steering wheel. Occurs at highway speeds (65-75 mph). vibrates for approx 20 seconds, dissappears completely for about 10 seconds and then returns. No noise, no changes in rpms, etc.

The only other service completed at the time was cleaning of fuel induction system.

Have since had all of the tires rebalanced where purchased (Wal Mart). Still no change. Thank you in advance for any redirection to the appropriate thread or info you might provide. Also, any idea what I could expect from the dealership with regards to them troubleshooting and repairing this issue (which paths will they likely take).

[AZhitman]

Welcome aboard!

We're having an issue with the SEARCH function - I'm told it'll be a couple days before we can get it resolved.

You're not dealing with a tire issue. A couple issues to look for: This sounds like a bushing, potentially stabilizer links or bushings. Also the bushings for the rear trailing control arms are a common issue on your truck, and can cause that intermittent on/off vibration - have them checked out.

Lastly, the same issue on our Frontier was - get this - a cracked U-joint. However, an out-of-balance driveshaft will feel the same, so having that checked is a good idea too... occasionally, a balancing weight will get knocked or flung loose, creating an intermittent wobble.

If you've gone 80k miles without replacing any wear items, you're well past-due. Time to give her some love.