Ideas?

My steering has gotten noticeably "soft", I can turn the steering wheel and the wheels don't turn for a couple of inches, problem is in the center and worse to the left than to the right.

The only work I've had done recently is new tires and an alignment. Everything was fine for a month or so, then I merged onto the freeway...and I was slightly floaty...and noticed that the steering wasn't as "crisp".

This happens at all speeds, but most notable on the freeway.

What causes this?

 

Steering rack bushings.

 

You alignment can have a lot to do with that. What specs did you use? WHere did you go? Check your fluid and your belts?

And yes rack bushings are a good move anyways. They're cheap and they help.

 

Your steering fluid topped off and all that? No leaks?

It could be that since your car is an 03, the steering rack bushings could have worn down and cracked even more most recently, giving you a softer less responsive steering feedback.

 

steering viagra

 

I heard that a common side effect is the inability to turn. If symptoms persist for over 1 mile jump ship.

 

It shouldn't last for more than 4 hours.

 

Steering column coupler. It has a rubber bushing that breaks down with use. You can find it under the brake booster, connected to the steering rack and steering column.

 

Sounds like the PS pump or the seal on PS line at the very least. Had mine go out about at about 90K, and sounded very similar to yours. Felt like the the swaybar had become disconnected and was more to one side than the other, most noticeable on the freeway. Sorry bro, if that's what it is, that ain't cheap.

I would do these while you are in there. Just had mine replaced with Whitelines and the stockers were torn and was told it is VERY common. Night and day difference.

 

Low tire pressure??

 

I'd check the wiper blades maybe...are you running an aftermarket Bov?

 

Do I know you?

 

Would I see leaking somewhere? Lack of steering fluid?

 

I heard that some times the clamps on resivor get loose, just enough to allow air int othe system. change them out with some nice worm gear clamps. it may help out.


I also have a set of poly bushings. :-) if you are interested!

 

You can check starting from the pump, and following both the lines on the left side to your steering rack. Then you can check for leaks on the hard lines on the steering rack by looking under the car. Check for any residue. If there is air like someone mentioned, then burp the power steering system by turning the wheel full lock left and right multiple times in a moderate pace when the car is running.


While you are under there checking your steering rack and ps lines, check your bushings too on the steering rack.