What are the symptoms of a faulty steering column in a car?

[LaAiden]

The symptoms of a faulty steering column in a car are: the vehicle becomes difficult to control, steering tends to deviate or drift easily, and turning becomes hard. The owner should immediately take the car to a repair shop for inspection and, if necessary, replacement. The steering shaft is the transmission component connecting the steering wheel and the steering gear. The steering column is fixed to the car body, and the steering shaft passes through the steering column, supported by bearings and bushings inside the column. In the event of a collision, the steering column and steering shaft at the front of the car move backward toward the driver's chest, while the driver, affected by inertia, moves toward the steering wheel. The application of energy-absorbing steering columns in cars plays a significant role in absorbing energy in the steering system.

[DelEvelyn]

Friends who drive should be aware that if the car's steering column is broken, you will noticeably feel the steering wheel becoming heavier when turning, especially during cornering or when turning the wheel while stationary—it requires more effort to turn. Sometimes, there might be a clicking or clanking noise inside the car, resembling metal friction, which can be quite annoying. Steering wheel wobbling is also common, making the car feel unstable at high speeds and affecting control. This issue may stem from worn bearings or motor failure, and over time, it can increase the burden on the steering system. I experienced this once—the symptoms were particularly noticeable on a winter morning after starting the car, and the repair cost a few hundred dollars. If not addressed promptly, it poses significant safety risks, making the car prone to losing control while driving. It's advisable to visit a professional repair shop as soon as you notice the problem and not delay.

[Riley]

When there's an issue with the steering column, typical symptoms include jerky and unresponsive steering wheel operation, as if something is obstructing it. Unusual noises are also telltale signs, often manifesting as buzzing or creaking sounds coming from beneath the feet. Some drivers report slight steering wheel wobble after prolonged use, affecting driving stability. These problems are commonly caused by insufficient lubrication or aging internal components, especially noticeable on long-term bumpy roads. I must remind everyone: once these signs appear, never force the vehicle to continue driving. Early inspection can prevent damage to the entire steering system. During repairs, it might only require replacing a small bearing at relatively low cost, but safety always comes first.

[Todd]

My car had a steering column issue before. The steering wheel became extremely stiff to turn, requiring significant force to pull during turns, feeling like moving heavy objects. Additionally, there was a screeching noise that sounded quite alarming. At highway speeds, the steering wheel would also vibrate slightly, which was unnerving. After researching online, many suggested it might be a failed column bearing. For safety reasons, I immediately got it repaired—spending some money is better than risking an accident. It's important to pay attention to such abnormalities while driving and address them early.