13 Toyota Camry 85k miles, shaking aggressively above 40mph

Question

To give some background, I recently got an alignment and tire rotation at my local Firestone. Here is where the vehicle was inspected with a recommendation to start with an alignment to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the next recommendation of the mechanic was to replace the front struts and sway bar link. Incase that still wasn’t it, he advised replacing the good tires on my car as a last fix. To be honest, I’m unhappy about Firestone not pinpointing the issue and instead handing me a invoice checklist of expensive fixes that might no be the problem.

If anyone can chime in on where to start with this car I’d would greatly appreciate it. Ill be doing the job myself if possible to save money, so I hope it’s not the tires.

Answer 1

See if your tires are worn evenly. Recently replaced the front tires on my mom's rattly minivan, rides like a dream now.

Comments

Tires are all good on thread.

Answer 2

I recently just fixed my aggressively shaking car. It was outer tie rods and my sway bar. Cost only about 250 in total to fix. I'd start by getting a front end inspection done. Then go from there.

Comments

Im going to put it up on the jack to take a look, but I might take it to a local reputable shop for a second opinion. Another user made a comment about avoiding large chain shops in favor of a local reputable mechanic or shop.

Answer 3

I would avoid going to chain repair shops. Go to a local and reputable mechanic. As for your problem, keep it simple. First thing that I do when I have a car come in with a shake is to balance the tires. I’ve had quite a few aluminum rims (the ones without a plastic hubcap) with the stick on weights come off. Heck, I’ve even had hammer on weights come off as well.

If you have people you can ask for shop recommendations, I would ask them.

Answer 4

If the shaking only happens during some type of acceleration, start by having cv’s checked out, especially inner cv joint.