Thumping in steering wheel when cruising?

[GinNBoost]

I just noticed this problem today. Whenever I'm cruising around 60 mph, I notice this slight thumping/vibration in my steering wheel. I was told by a few people that I need new brakes badly. Could that be the reason for this? I don't see any bends in my rims either. Anyone have any idea as to what it could be? Thanks.

 

[sniver]

Are your tires balanced, and aligned properly? My cars steering wheel reminded me of a washing machine agitator last week only to find one bracket on rack and pinion was loose, all tires needed balanced, and the toe was incorrect.

And as for your brakes... unless you have some nasty rotors that are all warped your brakes shouldn't be a problem....
Any think it could possibly be the tie rods?.

 

[Talesin]

I'd suspect a misbalanced wheel. There's another that's slightly less likely, but a lot easier to check... your inner CV joints. If the inner boot gets worn out, it doesn't click on turns, it thumps and tugs a little while cruising straight. I let one of mine get out of hand, and after a week the car became undrivable, the steering wheel jerking itself HARD to one side in a speed-dependent rhythm.

Brake rotors would be if the steering wheel shimmied while braking, or if you felt pedal pulsation while braking. Generally not while driving at a constant or slightly variable speed.

I'd visually check the inner CV boots if it seems to be speed-dependent, tug at the 'ribs' of the boots and check for grease leaks or tears. Failing that, get your wheels checked for balance.

You can also check the wheel bearings and tie rod ends by jacking up one side of the front, and grabbing the tire at the top and bottom. Try to rock it in and out along the camber axis. If it moves, you may need a new wheel bearing. Now grab the front and back, and try to turn it along the steering axis. If it shakes back and forth with any looseness, you need to get your tie rod ends inspected, adjusted, or most likely replaced. It might be less likely, but it doesn't hurt to check, just in case.