Why is the Mazda6 steering wheel heavy?
3 Answers
The reasons for the heavy steering wheel in Mazda6 are: 1. Insufficient power steering fluid; 2. Contaminated power steering fluid; 3. Issues with the power steering system. The Mazda6 is a mid-sized 4-door 5-seater sedan with dimensions of 4670mm in length, 1780mm in width, 1435mm in height, a wheelbase of 2675mm, and a minimum ground clearance of 150mm. It is equipped with a 2.0L naturally aspirated engine, delivering a maximum power of 108kW and a maximum torque of 183Nm, paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. The front suspension features a double-wishbone independent suspension with a stabilizer bar.
I've been pondering the issue of the heavy steering wheel on the Mazda6 for quite some time. In fact, Mazda's steering system is designed with a sporty bias, so it naturally feels heavier, especially when cornering to emphasize precise handling. However, if it suddenly becomes even heavier, you should be wary of problems with the electric power steering. If the power assist motor is worn out or the sensors malfunction, causing poor electrical signal transmission, you'll have to exert a lot more effort to turn the wheel. Additionally, wear and tear on components inside the steering gearbox, leading to increased friction, can also cause this. On the tire front, insufficient tire pressure or worn-out treads increase rolling resistance, making steering naturally heavier. I recommend checking the tire pressure first. If that's normal, then you should take it to a specialized repair shop to diagnose the power steering system with a diagnostic tool. Don't force yourself to drive it as is, or making low-speed turns will be very strenuous and could compromise handling safety.
I've been driving a Mazda 6 for several years, and the heavy steering can be quite a hassle. The steering had substantial weight even when the car was new, likely designed for more stable driving. But if it feels abnormally strenuous, it's probably due to an issue with the electric power steering system, such as a motor malfunction or loose wiring cutting off signals. Low tire pressure or worn-out tires can also increase the burden, especially noticeable when parking or making turns. Check the power steering pump or related circuits, make simple adjustments to tire pressure, or replace worn parts. With proper maintenance, it shouldn't be this troublesome. Always pay attention to changes while driving and address issues promptly to prevent small problems from escalating.
