At low speeds the steering wheel oscillates as if the front wheels are out of balance, but feels sorta like the hydraulic pump is surging. It is possible the wheels need a rebalance, but thinking there might be power steering issues too. It goes away after reaching 25 mph or so. Any thoughts?

rollinstone

 

What do your tires look like. Over inflated? underinflated? Unevenly worn?

 

unbalanced wheels and excessive toe may be the culprit

 

tire's are in very good shape...no wear patterns...tire pressure is good...checked regularly as is rotation. she's got 70K, tho so i'm sure a rebalance wouldn't hurt.

 

do you have any power steering noise?

 

Typically wheel balance and alignment issues intensify at higher speeds. First thing to check would be your PS pump's belt tension and also the pump's fluid condition and level. Next, check your lug nut's torque and tire pressure. Finally, if it's been awhile since your last check for alignment/suspension/balance........try that.

 

fsttyms1: nope, no noise.

3.2TLc: will follow your checklist...tks.

 

So the steering wheel physically moves? Is there any tire noise? About the only thing i can think of are tires, or the speed sensor for the variable assist steering(haven't seen one of these causing a issue yet, nor am i sure it would cause your symptoms)