When does the steering wheel return to the center?
If something is binding in the column, linkage, or gearbox, the steering wheel return to the center will be affected. Steering wheel returnability is dependent on the caster angle, and most vehicles incorporate positive caster (~ 6-7 degrees) into both front wheels.
What causes the steering wheel to return too fast?
Possible Cause #3: Excessive positive caster on wheels/tires, which also causes the steering wheel to return too fast. Possible Cause #4: Power steering is inoperative; however, you can eliminate power steering as the culprit by raising the front end of your vehicle off the floor and starting the engine.
How does the caster angle affect steering wheel returnability?
Steering wheel returnability is dependent on the caster angle, and most vehicles incorporate positive caster (~ 6-7 degrees) into both front wheels. Turning the wheel lifts the front end a little and releasing the wheel allows the weight of the vehicle to push back down assisting return to center. Binding front end parts cause steering problems.
When do I need to replace my steering wheel?
If nothing appears to be binding or sticking, we then check the wheel alignment and see where the caster and toe are set. It may seem counterintuitive to check the alignment after the components, but if anything is worn out, it must be replaced before it can be properly aligned.
If something is binding in the column, linkage, or gearbox, the steering wheel return to the center will be affected. Steering wheel returnability is dependent on the caster angle, and most vehicles incorporate positive caster (~ 6-7 degrees) into both front wheels.
Possible Cause #3: Excessive positive caster on wheels/tires, which also causes the steering wheel to return too fast. Possible Cause #4: Power steering is inoperative; however, you can eliminate power steering as the culprit by raising the front end of your vehicle off the floor and starting the engine.
Why is my power steering not returning to center?
Power steering made it turn sort of OK, but the PS would not turn it back to center. I took it to my favorite alignment shop. When they priced the parts, they were only available as a complete unit WITH the lower control arm. When they called the DEALER they were told that my car was subject to a factory recall for this dangerous defect.
Steering wheel returnability is dependent on the caster angle, and most vehicles incorporate positive caster (~ 6-7 degrees) into both front wheels. Turning the wheel lifts the front end a little and releasing the wheel allows the weight of the vehicle to push back down assisting return to center. Binding front end parts cause steering problems.