In TECHMAIL, we answer your motoring queries…
I drive a 2009 Toyota Hilux D-4D 4×4 double cab. A few months ago, I started noticing a heavy vibration through the steering wheel when braking at speeds of between 100 and 120 km/h. I took the vehicle in for wheel alignment and the service centre changed the camber bolts, but it didn’t fall within the camber specifications and the personnel advised me to have the camber straightened. I then asked for a second opinion from someone else, who said the vibration could be because of worn brake discs and that the discs need to be skimmed or replaced. Can you advise what the possible causes are and how the problem can be rectified?
NM MBULI
Gaborone, Botswana
Answer: If the problem was related to wheel imbalance or misalignment, the vibration would have been present all the time. Since you feel the vibration only while braking, the disc diagnosis is the correct one. The only permanent fix is disc and pad replacement. Skimming the disc will only temporarily resolve the problem.
