Comments: 1-15, 16-18
Very true... Yes over torquing lug nuts can warp brake rotors causing 'the wobbles' upon braking. Aspiring mechanics working at tire shops tend to make such mistakes. However, from your description the shaking does not seem to be occurring during braking.
One more thing, never take your car to a dealership. It's not easy, but if you look hard enough you will find a local reputable mechanic. City or county business awards for the mom and pop shops usual indicate a honest and trustworthy mechanic. Stay away from the large chain stores. They are more concerned about their bottom line and pleasing upper management than happy repeat customers.
I'm reading these comments about steering wheel vibration with interest. I owned a 1994 Celica which even after wheel balancing and new tires had bad steering vibration above 90km/h.
Now I own a '98 Camry 5 Speed (110K kms) with the stock 14" and there is also a vibration noticeable at highway speeds, particularly noticeable at 115ish. It would seem very unusual that these problems are being caused by bent rims. I think it may be slightly warped rotors. My rotors are 80% good apparently so I won't change them. Though, I have read a comment somewhere on this site about it being bushes in the steering or suspension. I'm going to ask my mechanic about it next time I see him (which could be a few years however, since I service my car myself - this is a Camry hehe).
Why not go to the dealer? Cars are complex and the small mom and pops may not be able to specialize in enough expensive repair diagnostic equipment, expertise in your given model and may end up costing more buying part after part. And returning. Look at the hourly rate in a small shop before you leave your car... it may even be more.
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