Why is the car steering wheel heavier on one side and lighter on the other?

[MacKeegan]

The reasons for a car steering wheel being heavier on one side and lighter on the other: 1. Damaged car shock absorber: Damage to the car shock absorber causes an imbalance between the two shock absorbers, resulting in the steering wheel feeling heavier on one side and lighter on the other when turning. It is necessary to inspect the car's shock absorbers and plane bearings, and repair them immediately if damaged, otherwise it may cause safety hazards; 2. Improper adjustment of the limit valve: The limit valve needs to be inspected and adjusted; 3. Damaged car steering gear: Damage to the car steering gear can cause the steering wheel to be heavier on one side and lighter on the other, as well as car deviation and difficulty in steering. It is necessary to go to a repair shop or 4S store for professional inspection and repair; 4. Lack of four-wheel alignment: After replacing the car tires, it is essential to perform four-wheel alignment again, otherwise it will lead to many unnecessary problems; 5. Improper installation of the steering wheel gear: If the gear is not installed properly when installing the car steering wheel, there will be issues such as an uneven steering wheel or it being heavier on one side and lighter on the other. The steering wheel needs to be reinstalled.

[VanNathan]

I drive quite often and it's quite common to encounter a situation where the steering wheel feels heavier on one side than the other. There could be several reasons for this. Uneven tire pressure can cause one side to be higher than the other, leading to an unbalanced steering feel when driving—sometimes turning left feels easy while turning right feels difficult. Additionally, severe or uneven tire wear can also affect steering, especially if the rear tires are worn, causing abnormal feedback in the steering wheel. Problems with the suspension system should not be overlooked either. For example, damaged shock absorbers can lead to vehicle imbalance, exacerbating the difference in steering weight. It's recommended to first check the tire pressure yourself using a pressure gauge to measure each wheel. If the pressure is normal, then promptly visit a repair shop for a wheel alignment or to check the power steering system. Don’t delay and let a small issue turn into a big one.

[DeAmara]

Experienced in handling steering issues like this, a steering wheel feeling heavier on one side often stems from incorrect wheel alignment or a malfunctioning power steering system. Misalignment causes tire angles to deviate, leading to uneven force distribution while driving; if the electronic control module fails or hydraulic pressure is insufficient in the power steering system, it can also result in uneven steering assistance. Another possibility is damaged front wheel bearings or stuck brake calipers, increasing steering resistance. It's advisable to check if the vehicle pulls to one side and listen for unusual noises from the steering gear, promptly inspecting these components. Regular maintenance, including periodic wheel alignment calibration, can prevent many such issues, safeguarding driving experience and safety.

[McAva]

Steering wheel issues are a safety concern. One side being heavier than the other indicates unbalanced vehicle steering, which can easily lead to loss of control. Causes include significant differences in tire pressure or uneven tread wear, resulting in abnormal steering system response; damaged steering linkage or steering gear may also exacerbate inconsistent steering force. If encountering this situation, stop immediately, conduct a simple check of tire conditions, and if unresolved, promptly contact a professional for inspection. Avoid driving on highways or curves to reduce potential accidents.