Harsh front end vibration

[Rick84]

When I drive over 50 mph, the front end of my car starts shaking. The front tyres are getting close to the limit so I've swpapped them onto the back but it hasn't made any difference. There is nothing rubbing in the arches and everthing looks ok with the suspension. I don't think it's the engine as the noise is constant whether I'm coasting or at high revs. Does anyone have any suggestions? Warped discs maybe? engine mounts? I'm suppposed to be setting off to Cornwall tonight but can't drive it that far as it is. Thanks

PS. I slid the car into a car kerb in December and replaced the wishbone and ARB bracket, but it's been driving fine since then. Has this come back to haunt me?

[ianaudia4]

Have your wheels been balanced?

[Rick84]

Not been balanced for 20,000 miles.

[ianaudia4]

Process of illimination, I would try these first mate.

[Nate]

jack the front end up. rotate the wheels by hand and feel for any rough or stiff spots. then check for any play in the wheel bearing.

[stu.gtx]

Sounds like wheels being out of balance - as Ian says. If you swapped fronts for backs, many places don't bother balancing the backs so that would explain the same issue after swapping the wheels. Wheel balance should only cost a few quid at a local garage.

[Rick84]

Thanks for all suggestions so far. I've changed all 4 wheels for a set off my brothers car whish I know to be balanced. Jacked up both front wheels and they rotate freely with no grinding / stiff spots also no marks rubbing patches on tyres or brake hoses suspension legs etc. Top mounts are tight and the vibration is still there. Also if I turn the engine off at 70MPH it makes no differnce so I think I can rule out engine mounts. Didn't use my brakes much and my front wheels were both hot when I stopped. If I turn right the vibrations completey disappear and if I turn left they get worse. Annoying as I has MOT last week and had no advisorys at all. Could it be bearings?

[richlyons]

have you looked at the cv joints?
i know the mot man should check the cv boots on a mot.

[Nate]

it's either going to be wheel bearing or outer cv joint. did you check for play in the bearings?

[stu.gtx]

Also may be worth checking wishbone bushes.