14 Aug Is Your Steering Wheel Feeling Loose? 4 Possible Causes
Have you ever noticed that as a species, we humans can be remarkably unobservant? I mean, if it’s wrapped in neon lights and making a loud noise, sure, it will get our attention. But what about small, subtle changes? Those can easily go unnoticed or get lost in the hustle and bustle of our daily lives. For example, my buddy asked me to move his truck to make room in his driveway for a delivery. No problem. But when I went to park it, the steering wheel did not respond immediately. I really had to work hard to get the truck to go where I wanted it. When I brought it up to my friend, he hadn’t noticed anything different or off with his truck. The change happened so gradually that it escaped his notice altogether. Don’t be like my friend. Be aware of changes in your car’s steering system, because a loose steering wheel can mean bad tie rods (or other parts) and severely compromise vehicle safety.
Steering System Components
The steering system plays a vital role in vehicle safety and reliability. It includes several interconnected components that control your vehicle’s steering. These components fit together much like the skeleton does in our bodies. Depending on the vehicle design, your steering system may include the following parts:
- hoses
- motor
- power steering fluid
- pump
- sensors
- valves
And the parts mentioned in more detail below:
Steering Wheel
The steering wheel is in the cabin of your car. Nowadays, you can use it to control your stereo, cruise control, horn, and other electronic accessories. But you also turn the steering wheel in the direction you want your car to go. It transfers your directives (right, straight, or left) to the steering column.
Steering Column
The steering column is usually covered with a protective shroud or shell in front of your dash. Inside the outer cover is a spinning vertical shaft connecting your steering wheel to the steering gearbox. Think of it like the spine in your neck that rotates your head back and forth.
Steering Gearbox (Rack and Pinion)
The steering gearbox is a toothed bar or rack that meshes with a pinion gear. It translates the rotating movement of the steering column through the gear, which moves the rack linearly. This movement transfers to the wheels via the tie rods and steering knuckles. The gearbox also controls how fast the steering column spins.
Ball Joints
These joints connect the various steering system components together. Ball joints allow smooth movement (like your shoulder and hip joints) without metal-on-metal contact. They help your vehicle’s tires turn.
Tie Rods
Made of steel, tie rods are slender bars or solid tubes on each side of the car, consisting of an inner and outer end. Inner tie rods have ball joints and connect to the steering rack. Outer tie rods connect to the steering knuckle. Basically, the tie rods connect the steering system to the front wheels, allowing them to move back and forth (or left and right).
What Causes A Loose Steering Wheel?
Okay, now you should know a little bit about how the components in your vehicle’s steering system work. A loose steering wheel may feel wobbly, turn more easily, or move further before your car changes direction. This looseness or extra play makes the steering feel less responsive and reduces vehicle safety. What causes your car’s steering wheel to loosen? Let’s take a look at a few possible reasons.
Loose Steering Wheel Nut
The steering wheel nut literally holds your steering wheel securely to the steering column. If the nut loosens, your steering wheel may wobble back and forth (not to be confused with turning back and forth) in your hands.
Damaged Steering Column
Under average driving conditions, a steering column can last between 100,000 and 150,000 miles. However, over time, it can weaken, leak, or get damaged during a collision, resulting in loose feeling connections between the steering system components.
Bad Linkages
A loose connection anywhere within the steering system (steering column, rack and pinion, or tie rods) can make it harder to steer your car in a straight line. Your vehicle may veer to one side or make clunking sounds when you try correcting your direction. A qualified service technician can perform a detailed inspection to discover which part requires repair or replacement.
Worn Tie Rods & Ball Joints
Over time, the tie rods and ball joints can wear down. You might notice this wear as extra movement or vibration through the steering wheel. If these joints fail, you may hear a clicking or knocking noise, and your steering wheel may be unresponsive.
Vehicle Safety
Is Driving With a Loose Steering Wheel Safe?
Driving with a loose steering falls into the unsafe category when it comes to vehicle safety. Being unable to reliably steer around obstacles or navigate accurately is dangerous and should be avoided. Additionally, a loose steering wheel can signal more severe issues with your vehicle’s steering system or suspension. If your vehicle’s steering wheel feels loose or unstable, please make an appointment with your auto service center as soon as possible.
Steering System Repair in Ann Arbor, MI
Ron’s Garage has been serving Ann Arbor, MI since 1982. We offer professional auto maintenance and repair services at a fair price, with an emphasis on customer satisfaction and vehicle safety. Our ASE-certified technicians can perform any steering system service on all vehicle makes and models, imported or domestic, up to one-ton.
Schedule A Steering Wheel Appointment
We would love to hear from you! To schedule a tie rods repair or loose steering wheel diagnostic appointment, please call us at (734) 961-4701 or fill out our online appointment form.
Ron’s Garage
Peace Of Mind Warranty: 24-MONTH / 24,000-MILE
Ron’s Garage offers a 24-month / 24,000-mile warranty (whichever comes first).