The steering and suspension systems on today's vehicles provide a number of functions. They help us navigate diverse road conditions safely, and they work together to offer a smooth, easy-to-use steering system. They are, nevertheless, most useful when it comes to assisting us in directing the car in the desired direction. One of the most critical parts of the procedure is the steering column.
A power-assisted rack and pinion steering system is used in the majority of modern cars. The steering column connects directly to the steering wheel and is placed at the top of the steering system. The intermediate shaft and universal joints are then connected to the steering column.
When the steering column wears down, there are a few warning signals that might alert the owner to a potential small or significant mechanical fault with the steering system, needing steering column repair or replacement by a car service near me garage.
The following are some warning signals that your steering column may be defective:
1. The tilt feature on the steering wheel isn't working - The tilt function on a steering wheel is one of the most useful features, as it allows drivers to choose an angle and position for better overall efficiency or comfort. The steering wheel should move freely when you enable this feature, but it will finally lock into place. This guarantees that the steering wheel is secure and at the right height and angle when you're driving. If the steering wheel does not lock, the steering column or one of its many components is faulty. As a faulty steering column could result in a MOT test failure, check MOT expiry date of your vehicle and have this issue fixed.However, do not drive the vehicle if this symptom appears, as an unlocked steering wheel is a potentially dangerous scenario. Make an appointment with a local certified mechanic to inspect and repair the problem.
2. Loud clicking or grinding sounds when turning the steering wheel - Another common indicator of a problem with the steering column is audible clicking or grinding sounds. When you spin the steering wheel, squeaking, grinding, clicking, or clunking sounds are most likely coming from the internal gears or bearings inside the steering column. This condition usually develops over time, so you may hear it from time to time. If you hear this noise every time you turn the steering wheel, have a mechanic check into it as soon as possible because driving a vehicle with a damaged steering column is risky. Check MOT history online to see if the steering system was a reason for failure in the past and what necessary steps were taken to fix the issue.
3. Rough steering wheel - Power steering components today are engineered to perform smoothly and consistently. The problem is usually caused by a limitation inside the steering column if you notice the steering wheel is harsh when you turn or if you feel a "pop" in the steering wheel as you turn. Inside the steering column, there are numerous gears and gaskets that allow the steering system to function properly. Because dirt, dust, and other material can get inside the steering column, things can fall inside and obstruct the smooth operation of these gears. If you observe this warning light, have a mechanic look at the steering column to see if there's anything minor that needs to be corrected.
4. When you operate a vehicle, the steering wheel should immediately return to zero degrees or the centre when you finish performing a turn. This is a safety feature that came with the power steering system. If the steering wheel does not return to centre when you release it, it is most likely due to a clog in the steering column or a broken gear inside the device. In either case, this is a problem that needs to be addressed straight away before your next MOT testing service is booked and inspected by a professional qualified technician.
The smooth and effective operation of our steering system is critical while driving anyplace. Don't put off seeing a qualified mechanic if you observe any of the above symptoms or warning signals, schedule an appointment as soon as possible so they can test drive, diagnose, and properly repair the problem before it worsens or causes an accident.