What Causes Slight Stiffness in the Car Steering Wheel?
2 Answers
The reasons for slight stiffness in the car steering wheel are: 1. Dirty power steering fluid; 2. Air in the pipeline; 3. Insensitive steering angle sensor; 4. Lack of lubricant in the steering column. The solutions for slight stiffness in the car steering wheel are: 1. Replace the steering column; 2. Adjust the steering wheel up and down and then return it to its original position; 3. Turn the steering wheel to full lock several times while stationary. The steering wheel is a wheel-shaped device for controlling the direction of travel, and its function is to convert the force applied by the driver to the edge of the steering wheel into torque and transmit it to the steering shaft. The types of steering wheels are: single-spoke, double-spoke, three-spoke, and four-spoke.
Having driven for so many years, I've encountered slight steering wheel hesitation several times. It always feels like something is obstructing it during low-speed turns, making the steering less smooth. This is usually due to issues with the power steering system, such as unresponsive electric power steering motors or poor performance of the hydraulic pump, leading to uneven assistance. It could also be caused by internal wear and tear of the steering gear, like insufficient lubrication of gears or bushings, which happens over time without proper maintenance. Tire problems can also contribute—uneven pressure or misalignment increases steering resistance, making the hesitation more noticeable. Especially in winter, when hydraulic fluid thickens, the situation worsens. Safety comes first—don’t ignore such minor issues, as they could become serious problems on highways. I recommend taking the car to a professional repair shop as soon as possible for a thorough inspection of the power steering fluid, motor, and mechanical components, along with routine maintenance to prevent hidden risks. Also, remember to regularly check tire pressure—these small habits can make a big difference.
