Why Does My Semi Truck Shake at 45 Mph?

Semi trucks are essential to the economy but also pose a threat to highway safety when they shake at higher speeds. It is important for truckers and owners to understand why this occurs and how to prevent it from happening.

There are several reasons why a semi truck may shake at 45 mph. The most common cause of shaking is uneven tire pressure.

When a tire is underinflated, it will not rotate properly causing an imbalance in the wheel that can cause the truck to vibrate. Additionally, the axles, wheels, and suspension can wear out over time leading to an unbalanced ride.

Unbalanced or Worn Tires – Uneven tires can cause a semi truck to shake at 45 mph due to an imbalance in the wheel. This often occurs when one or more of the tires is underinflated or has worn treads. To check for this issue, look for any signs of uneven wear on the tire’s treads and compare the pressure readings among all four tires with a tire gauge.

Wheel Alignment – A misaligned wheel can also cause shaking at high speeds. During an alignment check, a mechanic will adjust all four wheels so that they are parallel with each other and perpendicular to the road surface. This ensures that all four wheels are spinning in sync which prevents any vibrations from occurring as you drive.

Suspension System – Another potential cause of shaking is worn suspension components such as shocks or struts. Over time, these components can wear out leading to excessive movement in the suspension system which can cause vibrations as you drive.

Truck owners should have their trucks inspected regularly by a qualified mechanic in order to identify any potential issues that could lead to shaking at high speeds. If any issues are identified, they should be addressed promptly in order to maintain safe driving conditions on the road.

Conclusion:

Shaking at 45 mph can be caused by several different factors including unbalanced or worn tires, wheel alignment issues, and worn suspension components. It is important for truck owners and operators alike to have their vehicles inspected regularly in order to identify any potential problems before they become dangerous on the road. Taking care of these issues promptly will ensure that your semi truck stays safe while operating at higher speeds.

Photo of author

James Gardner