Can I Request a Refund for a Car with Steering Wheel Stiffness After Six Months?
3 Answers
A car with steering wheel stiffness after six months generally cannot be refunded immediately. It is recommended to keep repair records first. The reasons for steering wheel stiffness are as follows: 1. Lack of Power Steering Fluid: Check if there is a power steering fluid leak, which usually leaves black oil traces. Repair and refill promptly. 2. Lack of Lubrication: If the steering column is stiff, applying some lubricant may help, or the issue could be caused by the floor mat obstructing the steering column. To diagnose, disconnect the steering gear and manually rotate the universal joint. If it feels stiff, replacement is necessary. 3. Tire Pressure Issue: Insufficient tire pressure, mud accumulation, or impact with objects can cause stiffness. It is advisable to have a thorough inspection at a repair shop to avoid compromising driving safety.
I've only been driving the car for half a year and already experiencing steering wheel stiffness, which is quite annoying. As a car owner, I've checked China's automotive three-guarantee policy, which states that if there are major issues with the steering system, such as steering failure posing serious safety hazards, the car can be directly returned or replaced within 60 days or 3,000 kilometers. Having driven for half a year probably exceeds this period, and stiffness might not be considered a severe defect—more likely a minor issue with the power steering pump or gears that regular maintenance can fix. I suggest you immediately take the car to a 4S dealership for a full inspection; they will provide a report. If it's truly a design flaw, there might be room for negotiation, but realistically, prioritizing repairs is more cost-effective and hassle-free. Safety first—don't risk delaying the inspection on the road, as steering wheel failure could lead to accidents. My repair experience tells me that regular maintenance can prevent such issues.
Steering wheel stiffness is commonly seen in electronic power steering system failures, possibly due to a faulty motor or sensor misreading. I've experienced similar situations. After driving for half a year during the break-in period of a new car, stiffness generally isn't a major issue, and requesting a return is mostly unrealistic as most warranties only cover free repairs. First, have a professional technician diagnose the cause—replacing parts is usually quick. For daily driving, I recommend paying attention to steering responsiveness and performing early maintenance to prevent issues. The safety risk isn't small, so don't delay—contact the dealership directly for practical solutions, as they understand the rules and can provide reasonable solutions.
