I have a 97 AWD T&C. 242,000 miles (yes, you read that right). Great vehicle. Just recently, the steering wheel is having a bit of back and forth. At moderate speeds, neither acceleration nor deceleration seems to make it worse. It just does it.
The tire wear doesn't indicate an allignment problem. They're fine. The vehicle has original everything, save for an alternator, a transmission, an A/C compressor, and front brake disks (they couldn't be shaved anymore). Now, the disks could be shaved again, as they're not perfect. The pads are fine, but there's a bit of pulsing on braking. But, that's not what's causing the steering to pulse. I'm pretty sure.
I'm wondering about the CV joints. They're original. And they go thru heck. I do five miles on dirt roads anytime I leave my house, and as you might imagine, I do that often. And I also drive fast. Cruise is only good for 85 mph, btw. Some sort of safety issue, I'm sure. I don't abuse it, but I don't exactly baby it.
Now, I could have an allignment problem. I just discovered that the low tire condition (right front) I've been dealing with for a month was caused by a cracked rim. Evidence that it had received some trauma (it was bent a little). Second time that has happened, btw - maybe I should move. So, perhaps my allignment was tweaked, and I'm just now noticing the shimmy in the steering wheel.
So. CV joints? They don't make any noise, which is what I'd expect 'em to do were they finally wearing out. I don't think it is a tire issue, for what it's worth. They're due for replacement by the end of the year, but they're balanced and not cupped or saw toothed. Wheel bearings? Again - where's the noise? None.
I'd appreciate any thoughts. Am gonna retire this pig one day, but I was thinking about another 100k first.