Why is the steering wheel not smooth and feels jerky?
4 Answers
Issues with the steering gear; failure of the steering linkage, such as damage to the ball joint. Below is a partial introduction about the steering wheel: 1. Basic concept: A wheel-shaped device used to control the direction of cars, ships, airplanes, etc. However, the original designer of the steering wheel could not foresee that, with today's increasingly faster car speeds, the steering wheel has become the main culprit in fatal accidents for drivers. 2. Origin: The steering wheel initially installed on steam cars by the inventor was mounted on a vertical steering column, which had the disadvantage of being inconvenient for the driver to operate and obstructing the view.
The steering wheel feels rough and jerky, which I've encountered a few times while driving. This is usually related to the steering system, such as issues with the power steering pump. Low or dirty fluid can increase resistance. This problem is common in hydraulic power steering models, while electric ones might have abnormal motor sensors. Additionally, poor tire conditions can interfere—low pressure or uneven tread wear makes the wheels harder to turn, leading to jerky steering. Worn suspension components like steering rods or lack of lubrication can also cause sluggishness. I once experienced this and initially thought it was due to rough roads, but later inspection revealed loose steering rods. I recommend doing a simple check first: inspect the power steering fluid level and tire pressure. If there's no improvement, don’t delay—take it to a professional mechanic. Safety comes first; a malfunctioning steering wheel is dangerous. Regular maintenance, such as changing the steering fluid every six months, can help prevent such issues.
I feel quite annoyed when there's a jerky sensation in the steering wheel while driving. I remember one time when even making a turn was difficult, and later found out it was due to severe wear on the front tires affecting handling. Common causes include power steering system failures, such as a damaged pump or oil leaks; lack of lubrication in the steering shaft joints causing stiffness; or deformed suspension support arms adding to the trouble. For electric power steering vehicles, faulty sensors can easily cause inconsistent power assistance. I recommend that those who are handy can check themselves: inspect whether the tire pressure is even, assess tire wear, and check if the power steering fluid is clear. If that doesn't help, take it to a repair shop—don't wait until the steering becomes noticeably heavy like I did. Paying attention to these small details in daily use can save a lot of money, such as checking the suspension and steering components quarterly for smooth and safe driving.
Be cautious when the steering wheel turns stiffly or with jerks. Common issues include insufficient power steering fluid or pump failure increasing resistance; uneven tire pressure causing steering difficulty; lack of lubrication or looseness in suspension bearings. Such symptoms pose significant safety hazards, like difficulty controlling turns due to stiffness. I recommend immediately checking the power steering fluid level and tire condition to prevent worsening. If unresolved, seek repair without delay.
