What to Do If Your Steering Feels Light
If you drive your car on a daily basis, you are more than likely to pick on any small changes in the driving experience including the feel of your steering. If you think the steering feels light and loose compared to normal, then it is time to get in touch with your mechanic to get to the bottom of the issue.
The steering on your car is obviously a vital component as it allows you to keep in full control of the vehicle so there should be no chances taken if you spot a problem.
What does a loose steering wheel feel like?
One of the primary indications of loose steering is excessive turning when navigating a corner. You might spot that while making a turn, your steering extends further than intended.
Another indication you might observe is a knocking noise when encountering bumps on the road or the car swaying more than usual.
If any of these are impacting on your steering, seek assistance from a mechanic as steering issues can deteriorate rapidly. If you suspect loose steering, it’s advisable to cease driving at the earliest opportunity and have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic.
Why does my steering feel light?
Loose steering can be caused by several factors, including worn-out steering components such as tie rods, ball joints, or the steering rack itself. Another common culprit is improper wheel alignment, which can result in uneven tyre wear and steering instability. Additionally, a loose steering wheel may indicate issues with the steering column or the power steering system, such as low fluid levels or a failing pump. Regular servicing, inspection and maintenance are crucial to identify and address these issues promptly, ensuring safe and responsive steering performance.
How is light or loose steering fixed?
When a vehicle’s steering feels loose, it’s crucial to diagnose and rectify the issue promptly to ensure safety on the road. Loose steering can stem from various factors, and here’s how it’s typically diagnosed and fixed:
Loose Steering Diagnosis:
Visual Inspection: A thorough examination of the steering components such as tie rods, ball joints, and steering linkage is essential. The mechanic will look for signs of wear, damage, or looseness.
Test Drive: Taking the vehicle for a test drive allows the mechanic to feel the steering’s behaviour firsthand. Loose steering often manifests as excessive play or a lack of responsiveness.
Common Fixes:
Tightening Components: If the issue is minor, tightening loose bolts, nuts, or adjusting the steering box may resolve the problem.
Replacing Worn Parts: Worn-out components like tie rods, ball joints, or bushings may need replacement. It’s crucial to use high-quality replacement parts to ensure durability and safety.
Wheel Alignment: Improper wheel alignment can contribute to loose steering. Aligning the wheels correctly helps maintain stability and responsiveness.
Power Steering Fluid Check: Low power steering fluid levels or fluid contamination can affect steering responsiveness. Checking and topping up or flushing the power steering system can help.
It’s important to note that diagnosing and fixing loose steering requires expertise and specialised tools. Therefore, consulting with a qualified mechanic is advisable to ensure the issue is addressed accurately and safely.
Will loose steering equate to a failed MOT?
Loose steering alone may not necessarily result in an automatic MOT failure. However, if the steering is excessively loose to the point where it compromises vehicle control or safety, it could lead to a failure. It’s essential to have any steering issues addressed promptly to ensure your vehicle meets MOT standards and is safe to drive on the road. Regular maintenance and checks can help prevent steering problems from escalating to MOT failure.
