car problem

[TEAK36]

I have a 1997 Rover 600TI, and every time I apply the brakes, the steering wheel vibrates.It seems that the faster I am going,the worse the vibration,and it gets really bad if I apply the brakes above 50mph.I have absolutely no idea what the problem might be,so any suggestions would be most appreciated.

[Mortartube]

It may be any one or a combination of some of the following. You've lost a balance weight on a front wheel, warped/damaged tyre, underinflated tyre, overinflated tyre, damaged wheel after hitting a kerb etc, warped brake discs, worn brake pads (excessive wear on one side is a possible),One front brake caliper isn't working (look for hydraulic fluid leak on the caliper mounted on the brake disc, worn suspension bushes or other components, worn steering rack. The wheels and tyres can be easily inspected by yourself. If you have lost a balance weight, there may be a clean spot on one of the front wheels where it was. Look for odd shapes and twists in tyres (front and back). If there are any unusual clunks or noises when braking suspect worn components. Any metallic sound may indicate excessive brake pad wear or even a stone etc stuck in the brake pad material. Finally check the upper steering column behind the steering wheel, is there excessive movement. Is it an adjustable steering column, if so check that it's locked in place properly. I've probably missed something but there's a few clues to the possible cause(s). Let us know if yopu cure it and what it was, just interested.

[Jenny Tools]

A very full answer from Mortartube but the most likely and commonest explanation is s distorted front brake disc/s.

[Michael H]

If you suspect there may be something wrong with your brakes, go and get them checked. Its pointless to look for an answer here.

[Mortartube]

One more thing. Check that your wheel nuts are tight. Warped discs or a lost wheel weight would probably be the most likely causes.

[honkytonkman]

My father had a Rover Maestro which did the same thing, and it turned out to be warped front brake discs, which had to be replaced.

[Mr Bear]

It will most likely be warped front discs. Depending on the severity of damage, they may be able to "skim" the discs back to shape by machining. (At least that is legal in Australia where I live). That works quite well but you are only allowed to do it once or twice otherwise there wont be enough metal left to do the job properly. I would ask about this before replacing the rotors.