Will the steering gear be damaged if the left front wheel is hit?

[RobertLee]

It depends on the specific collision situation. Generally, the possibility of the steering gear being damaged is not very high, as the steering gear itself is not large and is quite sturdy. The most likely parts to be damaged are the tie rods and linkages of the steering system, as slender rod-like components are prone to deformation after a collision, leading to steering system malfunctions. However, if the collision is severe, the steering gear could also be damaged, so it is necessary to have it inspected at an auto repair shop promptly. Items to check after the left front wheel is hit: After the left front wheel is hit, some parts may deform, especially the lower control arm of the right suspension and related ball joints. At the same time, the steering knuckle, shock absorber, steering gear linkage, and steering gear should be inspected promptly. Common symptoms of steering gear failure: Difficulty in the steering wheel returning to center; steering wheel shaking or pulling to one side; uneven steering effort (heavy on one side, light on the other); steering gear oil leakage.

[Isabella]

If the left front wheel is hit, the steering system is likely to be affected because that area connects to the tie rod and gearbox. I had a similar experience once—after a minor collision, I felt the steering wheel become heavier and the car pulled slightly to one side. Later, an inspection revealed a slight bend in the tie rod. If not repaired promptly, it could lead to steering failure or accelerated tire wear over time, making things worse. I recommend going to a professional repair shop now—they can assess the damage accurately with their equipment. Also, have them check the suspension system and chassis, as they often suffer secondary effects. Spending money on repairs is better than risking an accident. Safety should always come first when driving, so don’t delay.

[DeMatthew]

As someone who frequently pays attention to vehicle safety, I must remind you that a collision to the left front wheel should never be ignored. The steering gear is the core component that controls the direction. Once impacted, it may cause deformation of the steering rod or loosening of the ball joint, resulting in unstable vehicle direction or frequent abnormal noises. I've heard of cases where owners neglected this issue, only to experience sudden loss of control during high-speed turns, nearly causing accidents. I strongly recommend you arrange a comprehensive inspection immediately, not just for the steering gear, but also for wheel alignment and the suspension system. A professional shop can handle this in just one or two hours, costing a few hundred bucks but ensuring safety. Also, pay more attention to the steering wheel feedback during your daily drives.

[GideonMarie]

I remember my car got a scrape on the left front wheel last year. At first, I thought it was no big deal, but after a few days of driving, the steering wheel felt a bit shaky and made slight creaking noises. I took it to the repair shop, and they found a cracked connecting part in the steering mechanism. Thankfully, it was fixed quickly before any major issues arose. Looking back, there are always hidden problems after a collision—you can't just judge by the exterior. If you're in a similar situation, get it checked promptly; otherwise, the steering might become sluggish or unresponsive. Spending money on repairs and parts replacement is definitely worth it.