What Causes the Steering Wheel to Suddenly Become Lighter and Lose Feel When Turned to Full Lock?
3 Answers
Reasons why the steering wheel suddenly becomes lighter and loses feel when turned to full lock: 1. The computer controlling the electronic power steering has malfunctioned, leading to poor thermal stability; 2. Performance changes in certain components cause the system to increase power steering flow; 3. Unequal left and right caster or camber angles, uneven body height, unequal tire sizes or pressures, or deformed/faulty tires; 4. Sticking issues in the steering system or brake pads. Solutions for a lighter steering wheel: 1. Check if the electronic power steering system is damaged; 2. Inspect the vehicle's balance system; 3. Examine whether the brake pads have issues; 4. Visit a professional repair shop for maintenance.
That day when I turned the steering wheel all the way while driving, it suddenly became very light with no feedback at all, which felt quite scary. This is most likely a power steering system failure—for example, the electric power steering module may have overheated in the extreme position and entered protection mode, making it feel floaty, or the hydraulic power steering fluid may have leaked, causing insufficient assistance. Another common reason is wear or damage to the steering linkage or connecting mechanism, which eliminates feedback. Low tire pressure can also affect steering feel. Driving in this condition is very dangerous and can easily lead to loss of control and accidents. It’s best to stop and check immediately, then take the car to a repair shop as soon as possible to ensure safe driving. Don’t delay—safety comes first.
Having dealt with many similar issues in the garage, the steering wheel feeling lighter when turned to full lock is usually a power steering system problem. For example, a faulty EPS module or sensor malfunction can cause this, as the feedback signal is interrupted, making it feel light. It could also be due to mechanical wear, such as worn steering gears reducing the effort required. Tire factors shouldn't be overlooked either, as uneven tire pressure can lead to instability. It's recommended to immediately check for any unusual noises or signs of fluid leakage, and simply inspect if the power steering fluid meets the standard. If you're not familiar with these checks, consult a professional mechanic for a thorough diagnostic using specialized tools. Driving like this for a long time not only makes it harder but also damages components, leading to more expensive repairs. Addressing it early saves both hassle and money.
