why does my Ford F-150 shake when I drive over 60 mph

Ford F-150 12th Generation (2009-2014)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

546 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix shaking issues in your Ford F-150 when driving over 60 mph. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

Affected Component

Suspension

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Always use jack stands when working under the vehicle to prevent accidents.
•Ensure the vehicle is stable and the engine is off before performing any inspections or repairs.

Symptoms

•Vibrations felt in the steering wheel and/or seat
•Unusual noise accompanying the shaking (such as grinding or clunking)
•Steering wheel pulling to one side
•Tire wear that appears uneven or excessive
•Increased difficulty in maintaining a straight line

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect tires for proper inflation and tread wear, ensuring they are balanced.
2
Check for any visible damage or bent rims.
3
Perform a wheel alignment to ensure that the suspension geometry is correct.
4
Examine the suspension components (shocks, struts, bushings) for wear or damage.
5
Inspect the driveshaft and U-joints for play or damage.
6
Check for any issues with the brake components, including warped rotors.

Solution

💡 Expert Tip

For complex repairs like this, consider taking photos at each step. This helps if you need to reverse a step or consult with a mechanic. Also, keep all removed parts organized - you may need to reference them during reassembly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

•Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
•Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
•Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
•Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

•Tire pressure gauge
•Air compressor
•Socket set
•Torque wrench
•Pry bar
•Jack stands

Parts Required

•Tires (if worn)
•Suspension components (if damaged)
•U-joints (if damaged)

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect tires for proper inflation and tread wear, ensuring they are balanced.
2
Check for any visible damage or bent rims.
3
Perform a wheel alignment to ensure that the suspension geometry is correct.
4
Examine the suspension components (shocks, struts, bushings) for wear or damage.
5
Inspect the driveshaft and U-joints for play or damage.
6
Check for any issues with the brake components, including warped rotors.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather tools and parts required for the repair.
Park the vehicle on a flat surface and engage the parking brake.
Gather personal protective equipment (gloves, safety glasses).

2. Inspect and Adjust Tire Pressure

Sub-steps:
- Use a tire pressure gauge to check the pressure of each tire.
- Inflate or deflate tires to the manufacturer's recommended pressure found on the driver's side door jamb.
Tools Required: Tire pressure gauge, air compressor.

3. Wheel Balancing

Sub-steps:
- Remove the wheels from the vehicle using a socket set.
- Take the wheels to a tire shop for balancing or use a DIY wheel balancer.
- Reinstall the wheels and torque them to the manufacturer's specifications (usually between 80-100 ft-lbs).
Tools Required: Socket set, torque wrench.

4. Suspension and Steering Inspection

Sub-steps:
- Visually inspect all suspension components for wear, including control arms, bushings, and struts.
- Use a pry bar to check for any play in the ball joints and tie rods.
- Replace any worn or damaged components with OEM or quality aftermarket parts.
Tools Required: Pry bar, replacement parts as needed.

5. Driveshaft Inspection

Sub-steps:
- Lift the vehicle using jack stands and remove the driveshaft if needed.
- Inspect U-joints for any play or damage.
- Replace U-joints if any issues are found and reassemble the driveshaft.
Tools Required: Jack stands, socket set, replacement U-joints if necessary.