Symptoms of a Faulty Car Steering Gear?
2 Answers
Symptoms of a faulty car steering gear: 1. Vehicle pulling to one side: If the vehicle continues to pull to one side under normal tire pressure and on a flat road, it usually indicates an issue with the car's steering gear; 2. Unusual noises when turning or steering in place: If there are abnormal sounds when the car is turning or a clunking noise when steering in place, it generally points to a problem with the steering gear or tires; 3. Difficulty in steering wheel returning: If the vehicle's steering wheel returns too slowly or fails to return automatically, it suggests that the steering gear is damaged; 4. Steering gear oil leakage: Oil leakage from the car's steering gear is often caused by aging seals or oil pipes, and the specific cause should be checked by a professional.
Having driven for over a decade, the most obvious sign of steering gear issues is the steering wheel becoming heavier, especially during low-speed turns where you need to use both hands to pull hard. Last week while driving on the highway in the rain, the steering wheel suddenly started to vibrate slightly, with a clunking noise coming from the chassis, which scared me into slowing down immediately. The car also inexplicably pulls to the right, requiring constant leftward steering input. The most dangerous symptom is the increased steering wheel play—where before a slight 5-degree turn would elicit a response, now it takes nearly half a turn to see the wheels move. If any three of these symptoms appear, it’s time to get it fixed immediately. Steering failure on the highway is no joke—it can lead to minor vehicle damage at best or serious injuries at worst. Don’t gamble with your life to save on repair costs.