What are the reasons for the steering wheel not automatically returning to center?
3 Answers
If a car's steering wheel does not return to center, it may be due to damaged suspension bushings causing severe inner tire wear. Reversing the tires can produce immediate improvement. A four-wheel alignment check should be performed to verify if the angles are within normal range. It is recommended to visit a repair shop for inspection and maintenance. Reasons for steering wheel not returning to center: Damage to the steering gear or excessively tight steering gear bolts preventing return; low tire pressure, incorrect front wheel alignment or camber angle; poor lubrication between the kingpin and bushings; lack of or leakage of power steering fluid in the steering system, etc. It is advised to visit a 4S shop for repairs and maintenance based on the actual situation. Connected via spline to the steering shaft: The steering wheel is typically connected to the steering shaft via splines. Its function is to convert the force applied by the driver on the steering wheel rim into torque, which is then transmitted to the steering shaft. Using a larger diameter steering wheel reduces the hand force required from the driver during turns. The steering intermediate shaft serves as a connecting component between the steering gear and steering shaft, facilitating steering gear standardization, compensating for manufacturing and installation errors, and optimizing the installation of the steering gear and steering wheel in the vehicle.
I noticed that the steering wheel doesn't automatically return to center after turning while driving, which is quite annoying. After some thought, I tried DIY inspection of the steering system and found severe stiffness at the steering column connection, probably due to lack of lubrication. Also, worn universal joints can cause this issue, affecting smooth rotation. Problems in the suspension system like leaking shock absorbers or loose ball joints make it even harder for the steering wheel to return properly, and uneven tire pressure or severe tire wear can lead to similar symptoms. After applying some steering lubricant I bought, the situation improved significantly. But I also realized that if it's an internal fault in the steering gear, professional repair is necessary. Overall, regular maintenance of steering lubrication and tire pressure checks can prevent such issues - don't wait until losing control while driving to regret it.
With over 20 years of driving experience, I've seen countless cases of steering wheels failing to self-center. The most common culprits lie in the steering system—worn internal gears in the steering box, seized universal joints, or insufficient lubrication making rotation laborious. Suspension misalignment, such as altered caster angles or failed shock absorbers, can also cause stiff, non-returning steering. Uneven tire pressure or significant tread wear further compromises return functionality. Don't underestimate this issue—it may lead to heavy or unstable steering, posing greater risks on long drives. Regular maintenance is crucial: inspect lubrication points and suspension components, and promptly replace faulty parts.
