This section describes the techniques and procedures for correcting the following types of vibrations:

The first step in diagnosing a vibration complaint is to identify the exact vibration that concerns the customer.

Sometimes the vibration can be duplicated at a given speed. Other vibrations may not be as evident and may require questioning the customer carefully. Perform a road test with the customer in the vehicle in order to determine the specific vibration complaint.

Ask the following questions when attempting to identify a vibration complaint:

The answers to these questions will help in duplicating and diagnosing the vibration.

If you suspect that the vibration is normal, compare the vibration with a vehicle that is equipped in the same way, including the following factors:

Important: Do NOT attempt to repair a normal condition, or the customer will probably be convinced that the vehicle has a problem. Customer satisfaction becomes extremely difficult after this point.

If necessary, ride with the customer. Make the comparison with the customer present and explain the situation.

All vehicles produce vibrations. Some vibrations are normal, while others are not. Some vibrations can be repaired, some cannot. Duplicate or experience the customer's complaint. Evaluate the vibration and the cause of the vibration under changing conditions. Otherwise, you cannot know for certain that you are fixing what the customer would like fixed.

The symptoms and characteristics of a noise or vibration are also important information. Ask yourself the following questions before you begin:

Different types of noise and vibration have particular characteristics. These characteristics will help determine the cause of the condition, and the best way to correct the condition.

You must understand a few basic concepts before attempting to diagnose a vibration. As in any diagnostic process, you must perform the following steps:

Road test the vehicle and inspect the vehicle in a manner which systematically eliminates different components. This process supplements the information which you have received from the customer concerning the complaint. Concentrating efforts on the areas that have not been eliminated will make repairs faster and more effective.