{"id":106049,"date":"2024-05-06T20:24:09","date_gmt":"2024-05-07T03:24:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogv2prod.wpenginepowered.com\/blog\/?p=106049"},"modified":"2024-10-25T08:44:40","modified_gmt":"2024-10-25T15:44:40","slug":"stiff-steering-wheel-common-causes-and-how-to-prevent-it","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/stiff-steering-wheel-common-causes-and-how-to-prevent-it\/","title":{"rendered":"Stiff Steering Wheel: Common Causes and How to Prevent It"},"content":{"rendered":"<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC \"-\/\/W3C\/\/DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional\/\/EN\" \"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/TR\/REC-html40\/loose.dtd\">\n<html><body><span class=\"span-reading-time rt-reading-time\" style=\"display: block;\"><span class=\"rt-label rt-prefix\">Reading Time: <\/span> <span class=\"rt-time\"> 6<\/span> <span class=\"rt-label rt-postfix\">minutes<\/span><\/span><style>.kadence-column106049_090de7-9b > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column106049_090de7-9b > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column106049_090de7-9b > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column106049_090de7-9b > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column106049_090de7-9b > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column106049_090de7-9b > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column106049_090de7-9b{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column106049_090de7-9b > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column106049_090de7-9b > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column106049_090de7-9b inner-column-1 qk-look-widget\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-ultimate-post-row ultp-block-934e1e  qk-main-wrap\"><div class=\"ultp-row-wrapper\"><div class=\"ultp-row-content\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-ultimate-post-column ultp-block-a451a9\"><div class=\"ultp-column-wrapper\"><style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading106049_3b4d7f-77, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading106049_3b4d7f-77[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading106049_3b4d7f-77\"]{text-align:center;font-size:20px;font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading106049_3b4d7f-77 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading106049_3b4d7f-77[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading106049_3b4d7f-77\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-family:Inter;font-weight:500;font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading106049_3b4d7f-77 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading106049_3b4d7f-77[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading106049_3b4d7f-77\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"kt-adv-heading106049_3b4d7f-77 summary-title wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading106049_3b4d7f-77\"><span>Summary<\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Problems that can result in a stiff steering wheel include a bad steering rack, misaligned wheels, power steering fluid issues, a faulty power steering pump, tire pressure leaks, and worn ball joints.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Electric steering gears (more common on vehicles after 2000) can cause suddenly stiff steering and sometimes require replacement of the steering gear.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Some ways to keep steering wheels from getting stiff include changing the power steering fluid regularly, checking the tire pressure, and ensuring wheel alignment.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Driving carefully and staying on top of car maintenance also prevent steering wheel issues.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p>Driving with a stiff steering wheel is incredibly dangerous. It affects your ability to control your vehicle, making driving feel clunkier. Your ride will be less responsive, and you&rsquo;ll have a hard time turning your vehicle. This can put you and the people around you at risk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why Is My Steering Wheel Stiff?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Various issues can turn steering wheels stiff, including a bad steering rack, misaligned wheels, power steering fluid problems, a faulty power steering pump, tire pressure leaks, and worn ball joints. The question is whether it happened suddenly or gradually and whether there are noises like whining or squealing when you turn the wheels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Bad Steering Rack<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/steering-rack\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"steering rack\">steering rack<\/a> connects the steering wheel to the tires. If the steering rack malfunctions or gets damaged in any way, it will hamper your steering. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/steering-rack-guide-definition-how-it-works-signs-of-damage\/#What_Are_the_Symptoms_of_a_Worn_Steering_Rack\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Bad steering racks\">Bad steering racks<\/a> make steering feel stiffer, and the wheels won&rsquo;t be able to rotate smoothly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Misaligned Wheels<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/5-warning-signs-your-car-needs-an-alignment\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Misaligned wheels\">Misaligned wheels<\/a> lead to numerous problems &ndash; stiff steering wheels included. They can cause uneven tire wear, making the vehicle veer towards one side when driving. This leads to stiff and heavy steering because the tires are constantly pulling your vehicle toward a certain direction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"article-search-widget\">\n<div class=\"cp-search\">\n<div align=\"center\">\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cld.partsimg.com\/image\/upload\/w_auto,dpr_auto\/carparts\/logos\/badge_wordmark\/full_color\/CP_LOGO_COLOUR_RGB\" alt=\"CarParts.com\" width=\"300\" height=\"56\">\n<\/div>\n<form id=\"cpsearchform\" name=\"cpsearchform\" action=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/search\" method=\"get\" target=\"_blank\" accept-charset=\"character_set\" aria-label=\"search CarParts.com\">\n    <input type=\"text\" class=\"keyword\" name=\"q\" placeholder=\"Search for parts on CarParts.com\" value=\"\" aria-label=\"Search CarParts.com\"><input type=\"submit\" class=\"btn-search\" value=\"Search\" aria-label=\"Search\">\n<\/form>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Power Steering Fluid Problems<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If your steering wheel is stiff when turning, there&rsquo;s a good chance it&rsquo;s because of a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/low-power-steering-fluid-symptoms-causes-plus-faq\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"lack of or insufficient power steering fluid\">lack of or insufficient power steering fluid<\/a>. This fluid can leak or become unusable over time due to contamination.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/power-steering-fluid\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"power steering fluid\">power steering fluid<\/a> lubricates different parts of the steering system. If there isn&rsquo;t enough of it, the steering wheel becomes stiffer and more difficult to control.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Bad Power Steering Pump or Slipping Belt<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/symptoms-of-bad-power-steering-pump\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"faulty power steering pump\">faulty power steering pump<\/a> can&rsquo;t pump the power steering fluid throughout the steering system. That can prevent proper lubrication (even if there&rsquo;s nothing wrong with the fluid), resulting in a stiff steering wheel. A slipping belt due to wear or oil can cause the power steering pump not to work well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Variable Assist Steering Issues<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A variable assist power steering system malfunction can cause the steering to be stiff in the parking lot or in town when it feels normal on the highway.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tire Pressure Leak<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/what-tire-pressure-is-too-low-for-safe-driving\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"tire pressure is too low\">tire pressure is too low<\/a>, it becomes more difficult to turn the steering wheel because the insufficient pressure increases brake distance and slows steering response time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In other words, tires that lack air pressure won&rsquo;t steer properly, making the steering wheel stiff.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Tires with low air pressure are also safety hazards because they reduce traction. Not only is your ability to control your vehicle hampered, but you&rsquo;ll also be less effective at braking and staying on course.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Worn Ball Joints<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/ball-joint\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Ball joints\">Ball joints<\/a> let the wheels move up and down while steering. If the ball joints become rusty and seized due to missing or compromised grease boots, steering may be stiff and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/bad-ball-joint-symptoms\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"may even fail\">may even fail<\/a> to return to center after a turn. Of course, caster angles can cause the steering not to return as well, but usually the steering won&rsquo;t be stiff due to caster.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Prevent Stiff Steering Wheels<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A stiff steering wheel is a hassle to deal with. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent it, including checking the tire pressure regularly and ensuring proper wheel alignment. Driving carefully and proper maintenance helps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/driver-with-stiff-steering-wheel-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"driver with stiff steering wheel\" class=\"wp-image-106058\" style=\"width:1024px;height:682px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/driver-with-stiff-steering-wheel-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/driver-with-stiff-steering-wheel-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/driver-with-stiff-steering-wheel-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/driver-with-stiff-steering-wheel-1536x1023.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/driver-with-stiff-steering-wheel-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/driver-with-stiff-steering-wheel-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/driver-with-stiff-steering-wheel-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/driver-with-stiff-steering-wheel.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Driving with a stiff steering wheel is incredibly dangerous. It affects your ability to control your vehicle, making driving feel clunkier.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Check Tire Pressure<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>As mentioned previously, low tire pressure can leads to stiff steering. To prevent this from happening, check the tire pressure regularly and ensure that it&rsquo;s within acceptable parameters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Most small vehicles ideally have a tire pressure of 30 psi. Medium-sized vehicles must have 36 psi, while large vehicles should have a tire pressure of 42 psi.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ensure Proper Wheel Alignment<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Because misaligned wheels can make vehicles more difficult to steer, it&rsquo;s important to inspect them every once in a while. Too much <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/what-is-caster-positive-caster-negative-caster-explained\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"positive caster\">positive caster<\/a> can make the steering more difficult, but too much negative caster can cause issues with steering stability and return-to-center after turns. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/alignment-and-balance\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Keeping the wheels aligned\">Keeping the wheels aligned<\/a> also helps ensure that the steering system works as intended.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>Too much positive caster can make the steering more difficult, but too much negative caster can cause issues with steering stability and return-to-center after turns.<\/p>\n<cite>&ndash;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/author\/richardmccuistian\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Richard McCuistian, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician\">Richard McCuistian, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician<\/a><\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Drive Carefully<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Every responsible driver knows this, but tire damage can affect your ability to steer and control your ride, so be careful on the road to avoid getting into accidents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Commit to Regular Maintenance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>It&rsquo;s a good practice to bring your vehicle to an auto shop for maintenance at least once a year. This way, you can have a mechanic inspect your vehicle and confirm that everything is fully functional.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Regular maintenance prevents stiff steering because experts can fix broken or malfunctioning components before they become serious problems.<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.kadence-column106049_50088a-b7 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column106049_50088a-b7 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column106049_50088a-b7 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column106049_50088a-b7 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column106049_50088a-b7 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column106049_50088a-b7 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column106049_50088a-b7{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column106049_50088a-b7 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column106049_50088a-b7 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column106049_50088a-b7 kb-section-dir-vertical kb-section-sm-dir-vertical inner-column-1 pro-tip-widget\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.kb-row-layout-id106049_b8f71b-e8 > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:start;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id106049_b8f71b-e8 > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:start;}.kb-row-layout-id106049_b8f71b-e8 > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-none, 0rem );row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);padding-top:20px;padding-right:32px;padding-bottom:20px;padding-left:16px;grid-template-columns:minmax(0, calc(10% - ((var(--global-kb-gap-none, 0rem ) * 1 )\/2)))minmax(0, calc(90% - ((var(--global-kb-gap-none, 0rem ) * 1 )\/2)));}.kb-row-layout-id106049_b8f71b-e8 > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.00;}.kb-row-layout-id106049_b8f71b-e8 .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep{height:100px;}.kb-row-layout-id106049_b8f71b-e8 .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep svg{width:100%;}.kb-row-layout-id106049_b8f71b-e8 .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep svg{fill:#ffffff!important;}.kb-row-layout-id106049_b8f71b-e8 .kt-row-layout-top-sep{height:100px;}.kb-row-layout-id106049_b8f71b-e8 .kt-row-layout-top-sep svg{width:100%;}.kb-row-layout-id106049_b8f71b-e8 .kt-row-layout-top-sep svg{fill:#ffffff!important;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id106049_b8f71b-e8 > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr) minmax(0, 2fr);}}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id106049_b8f71b-e8 .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep{height:px;}}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id106049_b8f71b-e8 .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep svg{width:%;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-row-layout-id106049_b8f71b-e8 > .kt-row-column-wrap{padding-top:28px;padding-right:16px;padding-bottom:25px;padding-left:16px;grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr) minmax(0, 2fr);}.kb-row-layout-id106049_b8f71b-e8 .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep{height:px;}.kb-row-layout-id106049_b8f71b-e8 .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep svg{width:%;}}<\/style><div class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id106049_b8f71b-e8 alignnone pro-tip-wrap wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-2-columns kt-row-layout-right-golden kt-tab-layout-right-golden kt-mobile-layout-right-golden kt-row-valign-top\">\n<style>.kadence-column106049_114239-67 > .kt-inside-inner-col{display:flex;}.kadence-column106049_114239-67 > .kt-inside-inner-col{min-height:45px;}.kadence-column106049_114239-67 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column106049_114239-67 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column106049_114239-67 > .kt-inside-inner-col{row-gap:0px;column-gap:0px;}.kadence-column106049_114239-67 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:row;flex-wrap:wrap;align-items:center;}.kadence-column106049_114239-67 > .kt-inside-inner-col > *, .kadence-column106049_114239-67 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-image, .kadence-column106049_114239-67 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-kadence-image{margin-top:0px;margin-bottom:0px;}.kadence-column106049_114239-67 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image-is-ratio-size{flex-grow:1;}.kadence-column106049_114239-67 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column106049_114239-67{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column106049_114239-67 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:row;flex-wrap:wrap;align-items:center;}}@media all and (min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column106049_114239-67 > .kt-inside-inner-col > *, .kadence-column106049_114239-67 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-image, .kadence-column106049_114239-67 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-kadence-image{margin-top:0px;margin-bottom:0px;}.kadence-column106049_114239-67 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image-is-ratio-size{flex-grow:1;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column106049_114239-67 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:row;flex-wrap:wrap;justify-content:flex-start;}.kadence-column106049_114239-67 > .kt-inside-inner-col > *, .kadence-column106049_114239-67 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-image, .kadence-column106049_114239-67 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-kadence-image{margin-top:0px;margin-bottom:0px;}.kadence-column106049_114239-67 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image-is-ratio-size{flex-grow:1;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column106049_114239-67 kb-section-dir-horizontal kb-section-md-dir-horizontal inner-column-1 pro-tip-item1\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.kb-image106049_3d0312-a2.kb-image-is-ratio-size, .kb-image106049_3d0312-a2 .kb-image-is-ratio-size{max-width:45px;width:100%;}.wp-block-kadence-column > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image106049_3d0312-a2.kb-image-is-ratio-size, .wp-block-kadence-column > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image106049_3d0312-a2 .kb-image-is-ratio-size{align-self:unset;}.kb-image106049_3d0312-a2 figure{max-width:45px;}.kb-image106049_3d0312-a2 .image-is-svg, .kb-image106049_3d0312-a2 .image-is-svg img{width:100%;}.kb-image106049_3d0312-a2 .kb-image-has-overlay:after{opacity:0.3;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-image kb-image106049_3d0312-a2\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cld.partsimg.com\/image\/upload\/f_auto,dpr_auto,q_auto,c_pad\/carparts\/blog\/widgets\/protip\/services-icon\" alt=\"\" class=\"kb-img\"><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.kadence-column106049_ae7182-7a > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column106049_ae7182-7a > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column106049_ae7182-7a > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column106049_ae7182-7a > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column106049_ae7182-7a > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column106049_ae7182-7a > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column106049_ae7182-7a{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column106049_ae7182-7a > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column106049_ae7182-7a > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column106049_ae7182-7a inner-column-2 pro-tip-item2\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<div class=\"protip-desc\">\n\t<div class=\"help-tip\">\n\t\t<p><strong>Pro Tips<\/strong> are nuggets of information direct from ASE-certified automobile technicians working with CarParts.com, which may include unique, personal insights based on their years of experience working in the automotive industry. These can help you make more informed decisions about your car.<\/p>\n\t<\/div>\n    <div class=\"help-caption\">\n        <p>\n            <strong>Pro Tip:<\/strong>\n            Make sure you tell the service advisor or shop foreman if you have steering issues, even if they seem insignificant. If the shop wants to do hundreds of dollars worth of front end repairs, get a second opinion without telling the second shop what the first shop said.\n        <\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-data443-irp-shortcode irp-shortcode\"><div style=\"clear:both; margin-top:0em; margin-bottom:1em;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/power-steering-not-working\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"dofollow\" class=\"u49b6ea4c962dfd80194ae28649705c7e\"><style> .u49b6ea4c962dfd80194ae28649705c7e { padding:0px; margin: 0; padding-top:1em!important; padding-bottom:1em!important; width:100%; display: block; font-weight:bold; background-color:#eaeaea; border:0!important; border-left:4px solid #34495E!important; text-decoration:none; } .u49b6ea4c962dfd80194ae28649705c7e:active, .u49b6ea4c962dfd80194ae28649705c7e:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; text-decoration:none; } .u49b6ea4c962dfd80194ae28649705c7e { transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; } .u49b6ea4c962dfd80194ae28649705c7e .ctaText { font-weight:bold; color:#464646; text-decoration:none; font-size: 16px; } .u49b6ea4c962dfd80194ae28649705c7e .postTitle { color:#000000; text-decoration: underline!important; font-size: 16px; } .u49b6ea4c962dfd80194ae28649705c7e:hover .postTitle { text-decoration: underline!important; } <\/style><div style=\"padding-left:1em; padding-right:1em;\"><span class=\"ctaText\">See also<\/span>&nbsp; <span class=\"postTitle\">Power Steering Not Working: Why This Happens and What to Do<\/span><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are some of the most commonly asked questions regarding stiff steering wheels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can you drive with a stiff steering wheel?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>No, it&rsquo;s not recommended to drive a vehicle with a stiff steering wheel. While it&rsquo;s technically possible to do so, driving with a stiff steering wheel is dangerous because it makes it hard to control the vehicle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How firm should the steering wheel be?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A steering wheel must be balanced enough to be maneuverable with a firm, yet gentle grip. It must be flexible, responsive, and easy to rotate.<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.kadence-column106049_2f87c8-31 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column106049_2f87c8-31 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column106049_2f87c8-31 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column106049_2f87c8-31 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column106049_2f87c8-31 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column106049_2f87c8-31 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column106049_2f87c8-31{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column106049_2f87c8-31 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column106049_2f87c8-31 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column106049_2f87c8-31 kb-section-dir-vertical kb-section-sm-dir-vertical inner-column-1 pro-tip-widget\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.kb-row-layout-id106049_2041ad-4d > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:start;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id106049_2041ad-4d > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:start;}.kb-row-layout-id106049_2041ad-4d > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-none, 0rem );row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);padding-top:20px;padding-right:32px;padding-bottom:20px;padding-left:16px;grid-template-columns:minmax(0, calc(10% - ((var(--global-kb-gap-none, 0rem ) * 1 )\/2)))minmax(0, calc(90% - ((var(--global-kb-gap-none, 0rem ) * 1 )\/2)));}.kb-row-layout-id106049_2041ad-4d > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.00;}.kb-row-layout-id106049_2041ad-4d .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep{height:100px;}.kb-row-layout-id106049_2041ad-4d .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep svg{width:100%;}.kb-row-layout-id106049_2041ad-4d .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep svg{fill:#ffffff!important;}.kb-row-layout-id106049_2041ad-4d .kt-row-layout-top-sep{height:100px;}.kb-row-layout-id106049_2041ad-4d .kt-row-layout-top-sep svg{width:100%;}.kb-row-layout-id106049_2041ad-4d .kt-row-layout-top-sep svg{fill:#ffffff!important;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id106049_2041ad-4d > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr) minmax(0, 2fr);}}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id106049_2041ad-4d .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep{height:px;}}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id106049_2041ad-4d .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep svg{width:%;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-row-layout-id106049_2041ad-4d > .kt-row-column-wrap{padding-top:28px;padding-right:16px;padding-bottom:25px;padding-left:16px;grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr) minmax(0, 2fr);}.kb-row-layout-id106049_2041ad-4d .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep{height:px;}.kb-row-layout-id106049_2041ad-4d .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep svg{width:%;}}<\/style><div class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id106049_2041ad-4d alignnone pro-tip-wrap wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-2-columns kt-row-layout-right-golden kt-tab-layout-right-golden kt-mobile-layout-right-golden kt-row-valign-top\">\n<style>.kadence-column106049_fb5442-71 > .kt-inside-inner-col{display:flex;}.kadence-column106049_fb5442-71 > .kt-inside-inner-col{min-height:45px;}.kadence-column106049_fb5442-71 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column106049_fb5442-71 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column106049_fb5442-71 > .kt-inside-inner-col{row-gap:0px;column-gap:0px;}.kadence-column106049_fb5442-71 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:row;flex-wrap:wrap;align-items:center;}.kadence-column106049_fb5442-71 > .kt-inside-inner-col > *, .kadence-column106049_fb5442-71 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-image, .kadence-column106049_fb5442-71 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-kadence-image{margin-top:0px;margin-bottom:0px;}.kadence-column106049_fb5442-71 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image-is-ratio-size{flex-grow:1;}.kadence-column106049_fb5442-71 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column106049_fb5442-71{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column106049_fb5442-71 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:row;flex-wrap:wrap;align-items:center;}}@media all and (min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column106049_fb5442-71 > .kt-inside-inner-col > *, .kadence-column106049_fb5442-71 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-image, .kadence-column106049_fb5442-71 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-kadence-image{margin-top:0px;margin-bottom:0px;}.kadence-column106049_fb5442-71 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image-is-ratio-size{flex-grow:1;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column106049_fb5442-71 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:row;flex-wrap:wrap;justify-content:flex-start;}.kadence-column106049_fb5442-71 > .kt-inside-inner-col > *, .kadence-column106049_fb5442-71 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-image, .kadence-column106049_fb5442-71 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-kadence-image{margin-top:0px;margin-bottom:0px;}.kadence-column106049_fb5442-71 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image-is-ratio-size{flex-grow:1;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column106049_fb5442-71 kb-section-dir-horizontal kb-section-md-dir-horizontal inner-column-1 pro-tip-item1\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.kb-image106049_c67dd1-b2.kb-image-is-ratio-size, .kb-image106049_c67dd1-b2 .kb-image-is-ratio-size{max-width:45px;width:100%;}.wp-block-kadence-column > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image106049_c67dd1-b2.kb-image-is-ratio-size, .wp-block-kadence-column > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image106049_c67dd1-b2 .kb-image-is-ratio-size{align-self:unset;}.kb-image106049_c67dd1-b2 figure{max-width:45px;}.kb-image106049_c67dd1-b2 .image-is-svg, .kb-image106049_c67dd1-b2 .image-is-svg img{width:100%;}.kb-image106049_c67dd1-b2 .kb-image-has-overlay:after{opacity:0.3;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-image kb-image106049_c67dd1-b2\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cld.partsimg.com\/image\/upload\/f_auto,dpr_auto,q_auto,c_pad\/carparts\/blog\/widgets\/protip\/services-icon\" alt=\"\" class=\"kb-img\"><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.kadence-column106049_24e557-7f > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column106049_24e557-7f > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column106049_24e557-7f > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column106049_24e557-7f > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column106049_24e557-7f > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column106049_24e557-7f > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column106049_24e557-7f{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column106049_24e557-7f > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column106049_24e557-7f > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column106049_24e557-7f inner-column-2 pro-tip-item2\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<div class=\"protip-desc\">\n\t<div class=\"help-tip\">\n\t\t<p><strong>Pro Tips<\/strong> are nuggets of information direct from ASE-certified automobile technicians working with CarParts.com, which may include unique, personal insights based on their years of experience working in the automotive industry. These can help you make more informed decisions about your car.<\/p>\n\t<\/div>\n    <div class=\"help-caption\">\n        <p>\n            <strong>Pro Tip:<\/strong>\n            Variable assist power steering reduces steering assist on the highway but provides max assist when driving slowly.\n        <\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>It&rsquo;s bad if your steering wheel is too loose. You won&rsquo;t be able to control your vehicle as well because the wheel can easily lull and change directions at the slightest touch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Similarly, it&rsquo;s bad if your steering wheel is too tight. A steering wheel that&rsquo;s stiff and difficult to turn is hard to control.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can the weather and climate affect the stiffness of a steering wheel?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes, the weather and climate can affect the stiffness of a steering wheel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Vehicles become more difficult to drive in winter overall because the sheer cold makes steering wheels less responsive. This occurs because colder temperatures thicken the power steering fluid. In more extreme temperatures, the cold freezes the fluid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Fix a Stiff Steering Wheel With New Steering Components<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A bad steering rack or a faulty power steering pump are just some possible causes of a stiff steering wheel. Regardless, you shouldn&rsquo;t ignore a stiff steering wheel because it&rsquo;s quite dangerous. Replace your inoperative steering parts as soon as possible. Need to replace your vehicle&rsquo;s steering components? You can find steering racks and power steering pumps here at CarParts.com.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You don&rsquo;t need to search multiple brick-and-mortar stores or websites to find the right parts. Simply enter your vehicle&rsquo;s year, make, and model in our vehicle selector to see the exact parts that you need. We source all our products from leading aftermarket brands, ensuring proper fit and function while keeping a competitive price. Since our warehouses are strategically located nationwide, you can receive your order in no time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Don&rsquo;t let faulty steering components risk your safety any longer. Browse our wide selection of high-quality <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/steering-rack\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"steering racks\">steering racks<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/power-steering-pump\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"power steering pumps\">power steering pumps<\/a> here at CarParts.com and shop for the one you need today!<\/p>\n<\/body><\/html>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p><span class=\"span-reading-time rt-reading-time\" style=\"display: block;\"><span class=\"rt-label rt-prefix\">Reading Time: <\/span> <span class=\"rt-time\"> 6<\/span> <span class=\"rt-label rt-postfix\">minutes<\/span><\/span>Driving with a stiff steering wheel is incredibly dangerous. It affects your ability to control your vehicle, making driving feel&#8230; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/stiff-steering-wheel-common-causes-and-how-to-prevent-it\/\" rel=\"nofollow\">Read More<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":106055,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_genesis_hide_title":false,"_genesis_hide_breadcrumbs":false,"_genesis_hide_singular_image":false,"_genesis_hide_footer_widgets":false,"_genesis_custom_body_class":"","_genesis_custom_post_class":"","_genesis_layout":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[3746,52],"tags":[1058,3073,1258,1032],"ppma_author":[2607,2985],"class_list":{"0":"post-106049","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-car-body","8":"category-diy","9":"tag-ball-joint","10":"tag-power-steering-fluid","11":"tag-power-steering-pump","12":"tag-steering-rack","13":"entry"},"acf":{"adrotate_specific_mobile_ad":"","adrotate_specific_desktop_ad":""},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.7 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Stiff Steering Wheel: Common Causes and How to Prevent It - In The Garage with CarParts.com<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Having trouble turning your steering wheel? Learn about the possible causes and how to prevent them in this article.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/stiff-steering-wheel-common-causes-and-how-to-prevent-it\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Stiff Steering Wheel: Common Causes and How to Prevent It - In The Garage with CarParts.com\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Having trouble turning your steering wheel? Learn about the possible causes and how to prevent them in this article.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/stiff-steering-wheel-common-causes-and-how-to-prevent-it\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"In The Garage with CarParts.com\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/carpartscom\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2024-05-07T03:24:09+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2024-10-25T15:44:40+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/car-driver-stressed-over-stiff-steering-wheel.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"2048\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1364\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@carpartscom\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@carpartscom\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"7 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/stiff-steering-wheel-common-causes-and-how-to-prevent-it\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/stiff-steering-wheel-common-causes-and-how-to-prevent-it\\\/\"},\"author\":[{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"$id\":\"4\",\"name\":\"CarParts.com Research Team\",\"jobTitle\":\"Expert Automotive Writer\",\"description\":\"The CarParts.com Research Team is composed of experienced automotive and tech writers working with (ASE)-certified automobile technicians and automotive journalists to bring up-to-date, helpful information to car owners in the US. 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