Mercedes-Benz vehicles are known for many different qualities and characteristics that lend to optimal driving experiences for their drivers; one of these qualities is exceptional handling and maneuverability in the steering system. One of the symptoms of a failing steering system component may involve loose steering, which is a serious issue for the car’s safety, reliability, value, and longevity. In this article, we’ll go over some basic information you should know about encountering loose steering, including possible diagnostic implications and how to address the problem effectively.
Potential reasons for loose steering
There are a few possible causes of loose steering, and they both involve failure of steering system components (no big surprises there!). Mercedes-Benz vehicles traditionally utilize a rack and pinion steering setup, which can be found in most road-going vehicles. In this particular type of steering system, there are two main components that can cause loose steering if they encounter issues:
Tie rod failure or damage
Tie rods serve an important function in the steering system: they act as a “tie” between the car’s wheels that touch the ground and the steering system. Tie rods can become worn out over time, which is a part of normal vehicle aging; however, some circumstances can lend to increased tie rod wear.
Ball joint failure or damage
Like tie rods, ball joints are also susceptible to normal wear and tear over time. The ball joints are another main connection between the wheels and the overall suspension, which are essential to the car’s stability.
Other symptoms that often accompany loose steering
Rarely do suspension system issues exist in isolation – there are usually other symptoms you’ll notice besides just loose steering. It’s important to be aware of these accompanying symptoms so that your trusted Mercedes specialist can get the most accurate picture of the problem.
Steering wheel vibration
When ball joints or tie rods become worn, it can also affect the feel of your steering wheel, especially while traveling at higher speeds.
Rattling sounds
Ball joints in particular commonly create a rattling noise when they fail, which could help indicate the ball joints as the source of loose steering as well.
Steering wheel drifting
Along with a loose steering wheel, you might also notice your car drifting or pulling to one side or the other. This is common, as your car’s alignment will likely be affected by a failing ball joint or tie rod.
Why it’s important to address this issue right away
Waiting to address any vehicle issue is problematic for a number of reasons. It’s best to stay on top of auto maintenance and repair tasks for the following purposes:
Safety concerns
Staying safe on the road is largely related to your ability to maneuver safely out of the way of harm to avoid accidents. Without proper steering quality, it could lead to auto collisions.
Vehicle reliability
Once the steering begins to feel loose, it’s likely that the part has begun to fail significantly, and it’s possible that the part will simply seize to work, which can cause you to lose control of the car at any moment. This leaves you feeling like you cannot rely on your vehicle at any given moment.
Saving money in repairs down the line
The longer issues go on without attention, the more damage they do to the other suspension or steering components. This leads to more costly repair bills later on that could have been avoided.
How to address the issue effectively
- Hire a Mercedes-Benz expert to handle all of your maintenance needs
- Don’t drive your car if you don’t feel safe
- Make sure your automotive specialist only uses high quality replacement parts for any repairs that take place
- Address concerning symptoms immediately
The Mercedes-Benz specialists here at Dell’s Service Center have attended to vehicles from all over the areas of Green Bay, Manitowoc, and Sturgeon Bay, WI, which has given us invaluable experience diagnosing and treating such issues as steering system failure. If you’ve recently noticed a change in the quality of your Mercedes’ steering function, please call us right away to schedule an inspection. Your safety is our primary concern at all times, and it’s our mission to provide you with a reliable vehicle that you feel comfortable driving.
* Mercedes AMG Steering Wheel image credit goes to: KeremYucel.
* Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG image credit goes to: kurmyshov.