I have a 2002 F150 Screw with only 27K but lately I've noticed that if I go over 55 MPH the steering wheel shakes like something is loose in the front end. It is still under warranty and will take it in to have them look at it, but I would like to know if there is anything easy to check before I go in. I don't know if it would be related to the tie rod issue either.

 

Sounds like a front wheel balance problem. If it started all of a sudden, you may have lost a wheel weight. Make sure your lugnuts are tight, and look the front tires over for wear or damage. If they look OK, A wheel balance is in order.

 

Wheel balance problem or maybe a bad tire.

 

It can be a slew of things....like everyone else here have said, check the balance and also have them double check the pitman arm, ball joints, etc...

Tony

 

Well, I took the truck to the dealership today to have the tires rotated and have them check the balance on front tires. What they found out was that the tread in one of the tires was worn down a lot more than the other treads. They balanced it the best they could and then rotated it to the back so I wouldn't notice the vibration as much. They tried to use the spare to replace the tire but alas the spare was a Wrangle AT/S! Eventually I'll have to replace the tire, but hopefully I'll get a new set of rims and tires before it gets too bad.

 

double check the pitman arm and ball joints like posted earlier. Mine went just after warranty. Same symptoms....... 600.00 more