- This topic has 1 reply, 2 voices, and was last updated 4 years, 6 months ago by
.
-
Posts
-
Ive been having this problem for a couple years now where it feels like the steering wheel has more play than usual when the car is not moving but on. The steering wheel itself will also make a clunk noise if I turn it just about 2-3 degrees and it will feel very soft at this spot where it feels like there is no steering connection. I recently replaced a driver side balljoint, outer tie rod, swaybar end link and 4 new tires. Took it to get an alignment also and they didn’t really catch any other worn out parts.
What exactly is causing this free play in the steering wheel because I don’t feel safe at all driving it like this anymore especially after getting an alignment and its doing this.
First check the steering column; particularly find where the u-joint is (it is under the dash) and inspect it. it can either wear-out or the bolts that tighten it to the steering shaft could have loosened. If you only feel the free-play when the engine is on, then the likely problem is the connection from the electric power steering motor (I assume your car has electric PS) to the steering column. On most cars their is a plastic or rubber gear that transmits torque from the electric motor to the steering column or steering rack. This “gear” can wear out. With the engine off, try to observe or feel if there is any overall free-play in the system. You can do this by placing one hand on the front tire while wiggling the steering wheel (you might need an assistant). If there is no overall free-play and you still have the feel of free-play when the car is on, it is probably the PS motor gear. Finally, it is possible that your steering rack is worn out, but this will show in the overall free-play when the car is off.
- You must be logged in to reply to this topic.
