What's causing loose steering?

Question

Just purchased a used honda crv.  2000 model with 100,000 miles.  

Car runs and drives great with the exception of some slack in the steering.  

 The car drives fine and tracks perfectly straight going down the highway but the steering wheel just has about 2-3" of slack in the steering.  Around town it's of no concern but on the interstate it's kinda unnerving being able to turn the wheel with nothing happening.  

It does the same thing whether its moving or sitting still.   

Just seeing if ya community can help diagnose the problem.  Thanks!

wt · Accepted Answer

Badly worn steering linkages and/or steering rack and pinion gear or loose/broken gear mounts.

CactiJoe · Answer

Drives like grand-dad's old tractor. Weee! 

This does sound like some worn tie rods. They can wear on the ends near the tires or inside the steering rack. Some are sold as one assembly which includes inner and outer tie-rods. 

They should inspect the ball joints as well. Just two lower BJ's, one on each side. Many are factory sealed so they can't be greased or lubed and the rubber boots dry rot and let moisture in the joint and they will fail. 

My money is on the tie-rods. 

Good Luck!

cosper · Answer

2wd no in 4x4 almost certainly. You both have a foul tie rod, ball joint, wheel bearing or rag joint. A rag joint is a rubber vibration isolator that is put in your guidance shaft. They calm down after a even as. Otherwise jack up your truck and see if the wheel juggles.

John · Answer

Could be a few different things. But most likely a loose Tie-Rod end.

Max · Answer

Mom always said, "Loose morals make loose steering!"

What's causing loose steering?

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