Wobbly Steering Wheel?

Goksly · 23 Jul 2008 at 23:46

Car just went in for an MOT and Service and I've noticed that when I'm driving, every now and then, the wheel will wobble in my hands (only slightly but easily enough to notice). I've also noticed that there is more 'give' in the wheel - the wheel is loose to steer for 1cm or so I would say.

Does this sound like some kind of tracking issue, 'normal' or something that should be looked into?

Cheers

James_N · 23 Jul 2008 at 23:51

Get the wheels balanced

Scania · 24 Jul 2008 at 05:57

Check the tracking, balance and also that your nuts are tight if you pardon the expression!

Zuma · 24 Jul 2008 at 07:16

sounds like you have a worn trackrod end or a balljoint.
cheap and easy to replace and you will want to get the tracking done after you replace it.

NathanE · 24 Jul 2008 at 08:46

This is called "play" in the steering. It's wierd because it's actually something they check on the MOT!

Could be many things like the steering UV joints, the rack itself or the track rods etc.

Firegod · 24 Jul 2008 at 11:46

NathanE said:
Could be many things like the steering UV joints, the rack itself or the track rods etc.

+1

Goksly · 24 Jul 2008 at 12:52

Thanks for the replies. My real issue was why has it just happened since the service? If it's wear and tear, it should grow over time? I don't remember any 'Play' in the steering before...?

Jonnycoupe · 24 Jul 2008 at 13:21

Probably the track rod end and the wobble in the steering is when it shifts around in its seat and the wheel toe changes.

Dogbreath · 24 Jul 2008 at 15:52

Also check the splines on the end of the steering column where it connects to the rack. If the pinch bolt comes loose this can develop free play (and eventually steering failure on some cars).

The flexible rubber couplings that are used to connect the rack and column also perish with age.