How to Fix Loose Front-End Steering in Your Mercedes

Do you think your Mercedes is wandering off the beaten track or are you noticing vibration in the steering wheel? These could be indications of loose front-end steering, a common problem that could compromise the handling and safety of your Mercedes. If the steering is loose you will not be able to have precise control when turning the steering wheel. It will be as though there is a lag between the time you turn the steering wheel and the time your car responds and it will be difficult to maneuver around corners or even just drive in a straight line. This problem can be caused by failure either in the steering or suspension of the car. Here is a guide on how to address the issue of loose front-end steering in Mercedes.

Causes Of Loose Steering

• Worn Tie Rods: Tie rods are links between the steering rack and wheels and assist in passing on your steering commands. However, as time goes on, these components may wear out and this can make the steering loose. It may be difficult to steer or make sharp turns and you may feel vibrations through the steering wheel. If the tie rods are problematic, then you have to do a replacement immediately.
• Steering Rack Issues: Steering rack is the component that translates the rotational movement of your Mercedes steering into movements that turn the wheels. If the steering rack is worn or damaged in any way it is possible to experience loose steering and even fluid leaks. In such circumstances, repairing or even replacing the steering rack is inevitable.
• Alignment Issues: Misalignment issues can result in the vehicle pulling to the side or the steering feeling sloppy and unstable. This can happen when one has taken a haphazard hit on a curb or a pothole or it may just be that the wheel has just worn out over time. An alignment service can fix the issue and enhance the car’s performance on the road.

Solutions for Loose Front Steering

• Replace Tie Rods: If worn-out tie rods are the cause of the loose steering, then they should be replaced as soon as possible. An expert auto mechanic can look at the tie rods and get the best quality spare parts to fix the problem. This repair will help you gain back the precise control of the steering.
• Replace Ball Joints: Defective ball joints are also unsafe because they cause loss of control of the vehicle. If you think that your Mercedes might have ball joint problems, it is wise to take it to a professional mechanic. Replacing the worn ball joints will address the issue of the loose steering and at the same time increase your car’s safety.
• Replace Steering Rack: Steering problems are always expected when the steering rack is damaged or has some issues. If the steering is sloppy or there are indications of fluid leaks, then the steering rack should be checked. In some cases, all you need to do is repair while at other times you will need a replacement to ensure that the steering works properly again.
• Replace Worn Bushings: Sometimes worn-out bushings can be changed and this will help in improving the steering feel. A professional mechanic will be able to tell which bushings are worn and should be replaced with new ones. This repair will minimize play in the steering wheel and make your Mercedes respond much better.
• Get a Professional Alignment: If the alignment of your Mercedes is off, it will result in loose steering and wear of tires in an unequal manner. A professional Mercedes alignment service technician will be able to get the wheels straight and perpendicular to the ground, as well as parallel to each other. This service will enhance the handling of your car and help avoid further damage to the tires.

Bring Your Mercedes To The Expert Mechanics In Algonquin

Francen and Son Foreign Car is an auto repair garage that has qualified technicians who can identify and solve all steering and suspension problems including loose front-end steering. Our garage is situated in Algonquin, IL and we serve drivers from all the nearby cities. If your steering feels like it has issues we welcome you to contact us. You can book an appointment now by calling us or stopping at our shop. Let us assist you in keeping your Mercedes in the best performing condition.