What Causes Your Steering Wheel to Jerk and How to Fix It

AvatarByCarl Frisch

When driving, a jerking steering wheel is usually caused by a few common issues. These can range from worn suspension parts to low tire pressure and other mechanical issues. The most common causes of a jerking steering wheel are:

1. Worn Suspension Parts – Worn suspension parts such as ball joints, tie rods, and control arms can cause the steering wheel to jerk when driven over bumps or uneven surfaces. If these parts are in bad shape, they won’t be able to absorb the shock of the road and will cause a jerky movement in the steering wheel.

2. Low Tire Pressure – Low tire pressure is another common cause of a jerking steering wheel. When your tires don’t have enough air, they don’t have the same amount of grip on the road as they should which can cause an uncomfortable jolt when you turn the wheel.

3. Wheel Alignment Issues – If your car has been in an accident or you’ve recently rotated your tires, it’s possible that your wheels are misaligned which can cause them to jerk when you turn them.

4. Out-of-Balance Tires – Tires that are out-of-balance can also lead to a jerky steering wheel experience as they will vibrate when driven over certain speeds causing an uncomfortable sensation in the steering wheel.

If you’re experiencing a jerking steering wheel while driving, it’s important to have it checked out by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible so that any potential issues can be addressed before they become more serious or expensive to repair

Common Causes of Steering Wheel Jerking

Unbalanced tires can cause your steering wheel to jerk when you turn it. When the tires on your vehicle are out of balance, they will cause vibrations in the steering wheel as you turn it. This jerking can be quite unpleasant and distracting while driving. The good news is that a simple tire balancing procedure can easily fix this issue.

Worn out suspension parts can also cause your steering wheel to jerk when turning. Worn out shocks, struts, bushings or other suspension parts can lead to excessive movement in the wheels and cause a jerking motion in the steering wheel when turning. If you find this happening, it may be time to have your suspension inspected so that any worn parts can be replaced.

Loose components in the steering column and wheel are another common cause of jerky steering wheel behavior. If you have loose components such as nuts, bolts or any other hardware that holds your steering column together, these could be causing the jerks when you turn the wheel. This should be an easy fix by tightening all of these components to their proper torque specifications.

Less Common Causes of Steering Wheel Jerking

Faulty steering racks, power steering pumps and steering belts are less common causes of jerky steering wheels but still worth mentioning. If your vehicle has an electronic power steering system or a hydraulic power steering system, then these components could be malfunctioning and causing a jerky feeling when turning the wheel. It’s best to have a certified mechanic inspect these components if you feel any unusual movement in your steering system while driving.

Overall, if your car’s steering wheel is jerking while driving there are several potential causes that could be at fault such as unbalanced tires, worn out suspension parts or loose components in the column and wheel. It’s important to have these issues addressed as soon as possible so that they don’t worsen over time and potentially lead to dangerous situations while behind the wheel.

Issues with Brakes or Brake Pads

One of the most common causes of a jerking steering wheel is an issue with brakes or brake pads. If the brakes are worn out, they can cause the car to jerk when coming to a sudden stop. This is because the brake pads are not able to grip the rotor properly, causing the car to shudder and jerk. Additionally, if the air filters are clogged, this can also cause jerking when trying to slow down due to a lack of air flow.

Diagnosing the Issue of Jerking Steering Wheels in Automobiles

When diagnosing a jerking steering wheel in an automobile, taking a visual inspection and test driving it are two important steps. During a visual inspection, mechanics will look for any loose bolts or parts that could be causing the issue. Additionally, they may also check for any worn out suspension parts such as shocks or struts that could be causing too much movement when driving. After taking a visual inspection, mechanics will then test drive the vehicle in order to identify any further problems with its performance. Finally, computer diagnostic testing may be used to pinpoint any underlying issues that could be causing the jerking steering wheel.

Solutions for Fixing a Jerking Steering Wheel in Automobiles

Once all diagnostic tests have been completed and potential causes for the jerking steering wheel have been identified, there are several different solutions available for fixing it. The first step is usually troubleshooting any loose bolts or parts that could be causing too much movement when driving. Additionally, worn out suspension parts such as shocks or struts may need replacing in order to reduce movement while driving. Aligning and balancing tires may also help reduce vibrations while driving at higher speeds. Finally, faulty power steering components or brake pads/rotors may need replacing in order to ensure proper functioning of the steering wheel and brakes respectively.

Warning Signs Indicating a Need for Auto Repair on a Jerking Steering Wheel

It’s important to pay attention to warning signs that indicate there might be an issue with your car’s steering wheel before it becomes more serious and costly later on down the line. Some common warning signs include vibrations while driving at high speeds, pulling left or right when driving straight ahead, and difficulty turning sharply when attempting tight turns. If you notice any of these symptoms occurring more often than usual then it’s likely time for some auto repair work on your car’s steering system before it worsens further down the line.

The Cost of Repair for a Jerking Steering Wheel in an Automobile

The cost of repair for a jerking steering wheel in an automobile can vary depending on what type of repairs need to be done and which parts need replacing or servicing. Generally speaking though, basic repairs such as aligning tires and balancing wheels will cost less than replacing faulty power steering components or brake pads/rotors which can cost significantly more depending on make model and year of your vehicle.. Additionally you should factor in labor costs which can range from $50-$100 per hour depending on where you take your car for repair work

FAQ & Answers

Q: What are common causes of a jerking steering wheel in an automobile?
A: Common causes of a jerking steering wheel in an automobile include unbalanced tires, worn out suspension parts, and loose steering wheel and column components.

Q: What should I do if my steering wheel is jerking?
A: If your steering wheel is jerking, you should take your car to a mechanic for an inspection. The mechanic may perform a visual inspection, test drive inspection, or computer diagnostic testing to diagnose the issue.

Q: How do you fix a jerking steering wheel?
A: To fix a jerking steering wheel, the mechanic may need to troubleshoot loose bolts and other parts, replace worn out suspension parts, align the tires and balance wheels, replace faulty power steering components, or install new brake pads or rotors.

Q: What are warning signs indicating a need for auto repair on a jerking steering wheel?
A: Warning signs indicating a need for auto repair on a jerking steering wheel include vibrations while driving at high speeds, pulling to the left or right when driving straight ahead, and difficulty turning the wheel to make sharp turns.

Q: How much does it cost to repair a jerking steering wheel in an automobile?
A: The cost of repairing a jerking steering wheel in an automobile will depend on the extent of the repairs needed, but can range from $50-$1000+.

In conclusion, it is important to diagnose why your steering wheel is jerking in order to ensure a safe driving experience. It could be caused by an issue with the power steering system, brakes, suspension, or other components of the automobile. It is important to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to identify the cause and make repairs if necessary.

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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