How to Fix Steering Wheel Jerks While Turning

AvatarByCarl Frisch

Steering wheel jerks while turning is a common problem in vehicles caused by an imbalance or misalignment of the vehicle’s steering components. This can cause the steering wheel to jump, vibrate, or jerk when turning at slow speeds. The jerking motion can be dangerous and can cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle. Common causes of this problem include worn out suspension components, a faulty power steering system, and wheel alignment issues. To fix this issue, it is important to have a professional diagnose the problem and replace any necessary parts.

Automobile: Steering Wheel Jerks While Turning



Steering wheel jerks while turning is an issue that can lead to dangerous driving conditions. Understanding the common causes and symptoms, as well as how to prevent and diagnose the problem, is essential for safe travel. Taking preventive measures and addressing any issues promptly can help reduce the risk of steering wheel jerks while turning.

Common Causes



Improper wheel alignment, tire issues, worn suspension components, power steering failure, and loose steering linkage are some of the most common causes of steering wheel jerks while turning. A misaligned wheel can cause the car to pull to one side when turning or braking, resulting in an uncomfortable experience for drivers. Tire issues such as improper inflation or worn treads can also cause a vehicle to jerk while turning; without adequate traction between the tire and road surface, it is difficult for a vehicle to stay on its intended path. Worn suspension components contribute to a rough and unstable ride, making it difficult for drivers to control their vehicles. Finally, power steering failure or loose steering linkage can cause unexpected changes in vehicle direction that could result in jerky turns.

Prevention of Steering Wheel Jerks While Turning



Regular maintenance is essential for preventing steering wheel jerks while turning. Proper wheel alignment and balancing should be checked regularly by a qualified mechanic; this ensures that wheels are parallel with each other and perpendicular with the road surface when driving straight ahead or turning corners. Tires should also be monitored regularly; checking tire condition and pressure ensures that they have adequate traction when cornering or taking sharp turns. Suspension components should be inspected annually by a professional mechanic; this will help identify any worn parts that need replacing before they cause serious driving problems. Additionally, power steering systems should be troubleshot promptly if any signs of malfunction are noticed; this will help prevent sudden changes in direction which could result in jerky turns or loss of control at high speeds. Finally, checking the steering linkage periodically will ensure that there are no loose parts which could affect vehicle stability during turns.

Diagnosing the Problem of Steering Wheel Jerks While Turning



Identifying the cause of steering wheel jerks while turning requires careful examination of several components in order to find out what needs repair or replacement. Checking tire condition and pressure is essential for ensuring adequate traction between tires and road surface; if either parameter falls significantly below recommended levels then it could result in an uncomfortable ride when cornering at higher speeds. Testing various suspension components such as shocks and struts helps identify any worn parts which may need replacing before they lead to further damage being done to other parts of the system. Inspecting power steering systems is also important as any malfunctioning parts can lead to sudden changes in direction which can result in jerky turns or loss of control at higher speeds – both potentially dangerous scenarios on public roads. Finally, examining the linkage between wheels and axle helps determine whether there are any loose connections which could affect stability during sharp turns or braking maneuvers.

Symptoms of Steering Wheel Jerks While Turning



Uneven wear on tires is one sign that something may be amiss with your car’s suspension system – it could indicate improper alignment or an issue with tires themselves such as improper inflation levels or worn treads which need replacing soon before further damage occurs on other parts of your car’s system due to inadequate traction between tires and road surface when cornering at higher speeds . Loosening suspension parts such as shocks or struts should also be checked regularly – if these are not replaced promptly then it could result in further damage being done to other parts due to increased vibration during sharp turns at high speeds . Unusual noises coming from your wheels may indicate a problem with your power steering system – fluid leaks from this system should be looked into immediately as low fluid levels can lead to sudden changes in direction resulting in a loss of control over your car during sharp turns . Difficulty in turning your wheels may indicate loose connections between your wheels and axle – checking these periodically ensures maximum stability during tight cornering maneuvers .

Solutions for Reducing the Risk of Steering Wheel Jerks While Turning



Preventative measures such as routine maintenance of tires and wheels , proper alignment , balancing , regular inspection of suspension parts , periodic troubleshooting of power steering systems ,and regular inspection of linkages between wheels and axle are all necessary steps for reducing risk when driving on public roads . Proper maintenance helps keep vehicles running smoothly by ensuring all components are functioning correctly so there isn’t anything unexpected happening when cornering at higher speeds . Regularly checking tires , suspension components , power steering systems ,and linkages helps identify any potential problems early before they become more serious issues requiring costly repairs .

Cost To Fix A Car With A Problematic Steering Wheel



The cost associated with fixing cars with problematic steering wheels varies depending on what type of work needs doing – repairs such as new tyres , alignments , balancing ,suspension part replacements etc all add up quickly over time if not addressed promptly by a qualified mechanic . The cost also depends on what type/brand/model/year-make car you have – some cars require specialist tools/parts which naturally come at a premium price compared to more generic models available on market today . However , whatever type/brand/model/year-make car you have ,it’s always better (and cheaper)to address problems like these early rather than waiting till it’s too late – prevention is always better than cure !

Introduction



Driving a car with a problematic steering wheel can be an unpleasant experience. Steering wheel jerks while turning can occur due to a variety of factors such as worn-out suspension parts, power steering issues, or misaligned linkages between the wheels and axle. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to identify and address the problem before it leads to major safety concerns. In this article, we’ll cover the potential causes of a jerking steering wheel, as well as strategies for keeping your car in top condition and improving its safety on the road.

Potential Causes of Steering Wheel Jerks



One of the most common causes of jerky steering wheels is worn-out suspension parts. Shock absorbers, tie rods, and other components that make up your car’s suspension system are designed to absorb shocks from bumps and potholes in the road. Over time, these parts can wear down or become damaged due to wear and tear, resulting in poor handling performance and a jerky steering wheel when turning.

In addition to worn-out suspension components, power steering issues can also contribute to steering wheel jerkiness. Power steering systems use hydraulic pressure or electric motors to make it easier for drivers to turn their cars at low speeds. When these systems fail or malfunction due to leaky hoses or faulty valves, they can cause your car’s steering wheel to jerk while turning.

Finally, misaligned linkages between your car’s wheels and axle can also cause jerking when turning. If your car’s wheels have become misaligned due to an accident or regular wear-and-tear over time, they may not move in unison when you turn the steering wheel. This can cause sudden changes in direction that result in an uncomfortable jerk of the steering wheel while driving.

Inspections & Tests Performed by Mechanics



If you suspect that one of these factors is causing your car’s jerking steering wheel issue, it is important that you take it into a qualified mechanic for inspection and testing as soon as possible. During this process, a professional mechanic will inspect each component of your vehicle’s suspension system for signs of wear or damage that may be causing the problem. They may also test the power steering system for leaks or faulty valves and check for misaligned linkages between the wheels and axle. If any issues are found during these tests, they will recommend repairs or replacements necessary for restoring smooth functioning performance on your vehicle’s roads again soon enough!

Replacing or Repairing Damaged Parts



Once any necessary repairs have been identified by a professional technician during inspections & tests performed by mechanics on your vehicle’s suspension system & other components related to jerky motion while turning; then replacing/repairing those damaged parts becomes necessary depending on their condition & degree of damage caused so far by those particular components which must be fixed in order to restore safe & smooth functioning performance again on roads while travelling through different terrains with ease! This process usually involves purchasing new replacement parts like tires/shock absorbers/tie rods etc., along with labor costs required for installation & repair work done by technicians; which might be expensive but it’s worth investing money into such kind of repairs as prevention from major safety hazards faced by drivers due to malfunctioning vehicles!

Safety Tips for Driving a Car with a Problematic Steering Wheel



In addition to repairing any damaged components on your vehicle’s suspension system & power steering mechanism; there are certain safety tips one must follow while driving their vehicles equipped with problematic/jerky motioned steered wheels! These include: increasing distance between you & other cars on roads (especially during turns), slowing down speed limits when taking turns & regular maintenance services carried out periodically like routine tire checks/suspension part inspections/powersteering troubleshooting etc., which helps in prolonging life span of all kinds vehicular components working together towards providing safe travelling experiences!

Benefits To Repairing A Car With A Problematic Steering Wheel



Repairing cars equipped with problematic steered wheels offers many benefits such as improved handling performances like smoother ride/easier control direction/increased safety while driving etc., which makes it worth getting all kinds vehicular issues diagnosed & fixed in time before they lead towards major casualties due unforeseen circumstances caused due faulty machinery working conditions! Thus getting regular maintenance services performed at least once every year is highly recommended from both auto mechanics as well as road safety experts alike; who provide valuable insights regarding how best one should maintain their vehicles in top notch conditions throughout their ownership period!

FAQ & Answers



Q: What are the common causes of steering wheel jerks while turning?
A: The common causes of steering wheel jerks while turning are improper wheel alignment, tire issues, worn suspension components, power steering failure, and loose steering linkage.

Q: How can I prevent steering wheel jerks while turning?
A: You can prevent steering wheel jerks while turning by performing regular maintenance such as proper wheel alignment and balancing, monitoring tire condition and pressure, checking suspension components annually, troubleshooting power steering issues promptly, and checking the steering linkage periodically.

Q: How can I diagnose the problem of steering wheel jerks while turning?
A: You can diagnose the problem of steering wheel jerks while turning by identifying the cause which includes checking tire conditions and pressure, testing suspension components, inspecting power steering system, and examining the steering linkage.

Q: What are the symptoms of a car with a problematic steering wheel?
A: The symptoms of a car with a problematic steering wheel include uneven wear on tires, loosening suspension parts, unusual noises from the wheels, fluid leaks from the power steering system, and difficulty in turning the wheels.

Q: What are some solutions for reducing the risk of steering wheel jerks while turning?
A: Some solutions for reducing the risk of steering wheel jerks while turning include preventive measures such as routine maintenance of tires and wheels, proper alignment and balancing, regular inspection of suspension parts, periodic troubleshooting of power steering system and regular inspection of linkage between wheels and axle.

In conclusion, steering wheel jerks while turning is a common problem faced by automobile owners. It is usually caused by worn out parts such as the steering linkage or the power steering pump. If the jerking persists, it is advisable to get it checked by a professional mechanic to identify and rectify the issue. Regular maintenance of the car and its components can help reduce the chances of experiencing steering wheel jerks while turning.

Author Profile

Carl Frisch
Carl Frisch
With more than 30 years in the bicycle industry, I have a strong background in bicycle retailing, sales, marketing and customer service. I have a passion for cycling and a dedication to excellence. As a manager, I worked diligently to increase my capabilities and responsibilities, managing up to eleven mechanics (at Palo Alto Bicycles) and later as a working partner in my own store.

As the shop owner of Spoke n’ Word Cycles in Socorro, NM, the success of the mission was my responsibility, which I pursued passionately since we opened in 2003 through the spring of 2011. I am adept at managing owned and loan inventory, preparing weekly & annual inventory statements, and managing staff. The role as managing partner also allowed me tremendous freedom. I used this personal freedom to become more deeply involved in my own advancement as a mechanic, to spearhead local trail building, and advocating for cycling both locally and regionally.

As a mechanic, I have several years doing neutral support, experience as a team mechanic, and experience supporting local rides, races, club events. I consistently strive to ensure that bicycles function flawlessly by foreseeing issues and working with the riders, soigners, coaches and other mechanics. Even with decades of experience as a shop mechanic and team mechanic, and continue to pursue greater involvement in this sport as a US Pro Mechanic, and UCI Pro Mechanic.

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