What Are the Symptoms of a Damaged Steering Column?
2 Answers
Symptoms of a damaged steering column include the vehicle pulling to one side on straight roads, heavier steering feel, increased free play, oversteering or understeering, steering wheel vibration, and unusual noises during steering. Since the steering column is critical to steering safety, it should not be taken lightly and requires prompt attention. Here are the solutions: Adding Special Lubricant: If the steering column is only experiencing friction noises due to lack of lubrication, a complete replacement may not be necessary. Adding a special lubricant can resolve the issue. Direct Replacement: If the steering column shows signs of excessive wear, rust, or deformation, the only solution is to replace it with a new steering column.
Last time I was driving, I encountered an issue with the steering column. The steering wheel felt extremely loose, wobbling with just a light touch, especially noticeable when turning or going over bumpy roads. Occasionally, there was also a squeaking noise, as if something was stuck inside. The response of the steering wheel was off too—it would slightly drift when it was supposed to go straight, which was particularly dangerous at high speeds because the unstable steering control could easily lead to an accident. The cause was likely wear and tear of internal mechanical components, such as aging bearings or increased gaps at the joints. I later took it to a repair shop for inspection and spent around five to six hundred yuan replacing the faulty parts. I recommend everyone pay attention to the feel of their steering wheel regularly. If you notice anything unusual, address it immediately—don’t wait until a major problem occurs to regret it.
