Steering not as responsive
Discussion
Got a MK2 Yaris 08
Few months back I had the top mounts and coils done for the front.
Since then I feel I have to turn more than I used to. Lets say for a parallel park I used to turn the wheel one turn to the left. I now have to turn about one and a quarter.
Going round a 90 degree corner I used to turn about half a turn, now I have to turn a full turn.
Today I had the tracking done, and it seems to have changed again, to the point where I have to turn even more.
This is more noticeable at low speeds, at higher speeds ( 40 to 70 mph ) it is nice and responsive.
Any ideas what could cause this ?
I do occasionally get a clicking sound from the steering wheel ( This started well after the " lack of responsiveness" so probably not related ). I have heard is a common thing in Toyotas, mostly been alleviated by lubricating the middle part of the steering column. Said clicking sound is usually only when parking at low speeds, and seems to disappear if I occasionally adjust the wheel up and down a few times.
The column itself looks tight, and has no play.
Few months back I had the top mounts and coils done for the front.
Since then I feel I have to turn more than I used to. Lets say for a parallel park I used to turn the wheel one turn to the left. I now have to turn about one and a quarter.
Going round a 90 degree corner I used to turn about half a turn, now I have to turn a full turn.
Today I had the tracking done, and it seems to have changed again, to the point where I have to turn even more.
This is more noticeable at low speeds, at higher speeds ( 40 to 70 mph ) it is nice and responsive.
Any ideas what could cause this ?
I do occasionally get a clicking sound from the steering wheel ( This started well after the " lack of responsiveness" so probably not related ). I have heard is a common thing in Toyotas, mostly been alleviated by lubricating the middle part of the steering column. Said clicking sound is usually only when parking at low speeds, and seems to disappear if I occasionally adjust the wheel up and down a few times.
The column itself looks tight, and has no play.
Edited by MakaveliX on Wednesday 1st June 17:33
Edited by MakaveliX on Wednesday 1st June 18:50
I suspect that either the geometry was changed and this changed the weight of the steering which is making you more aware of the steering input, or it's entirely in your head.
Geometry changes can affect how well the car responds to small steering inputs at high speed, but at low speeds it's basically just a question of the mechanical gearing in the steering rack and nothing you've done will alter that.
Geometry changes can affect how well the car responds to small steering inputs at high speed, but at low speeds it's basically just a question of the mechanical gearing in the steering rack and nothing you've done will alter that.
I'd get it properly aligned, not just tracking but castor and camber as well, they may not be adjustable but if something is way out might give a clue what's going on.
Worth checking the steering column UJ too, it might have some wear but also on some cars they can start to seize which gives an odd steering sensation.
Obviously you've checked all the obvious bushes and bolts involved in the steering and suspension both front and rear and nothing's showing signs of wear or seizure?
Worth checking the steering column UJ too, it might have some wear but also on some cars they can start to seize which gives an odd steering sensation.
Obviously you've checked all the obvious bushes and bolts involved in the steering and suspension both front and rear and nothing's showing signs of wear or seizure?
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