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2017 LaCrosse: Loose Steering and Highway Wandering

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 2:45 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2017 Buick LaCrosse Premium

Hi everyone,

I'm looking for some advice on my 2017 Buick LaCrosse Premium. It has about 70,000 miles on it. Lately, the steering has started to feel really loose, almost like there's a slight delay or play when I turn the wheel. On the highway, it feels like the car wants to wander a bit, and I'm constantly making small corrections to keep it straight.

It's not pulling hard to one side, but it just doesn't feel as precise or responsive as it used to. I haven't hit any major potholes recently that I can recall. Could this be an alignment issue, or something more serious with the steering or suspension components?

Any thoughts on what might be causing this or what I should have checked out first? Thanks in advance for your help!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 2:45 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Loose steering and a tendency for your 2017 Buick LaCrosse to wander on the highway are classic symptoms of wear in various steering and suspension components. This issue can significantly impact your vehicle's safety and driving comfort. Here's a breakdown of potential causes:

Common Causes:

  1. Tie Rod Ends (Inner or Outer): These connect the steering rack to the steering knuckle. Worn tie rod ends will introduce play into the steering system, leading to a loose feel and wandering.
  2. Ball Joints: These connect the control arms to the steering knuckle. Worn ball joints can cause excessive play in the suspension, affecting steering stability and alignment.
  3. Control Arm Bushings: Deteriorated rubber bushings in the control arms allow for unwanted movement of the wheels, contributing to loose steering and poor tracking.
  4. Wheel Bearings: While primarily causing noise (humming/grinding) and sometimes vibration, severely worn wheel bearings can also introduce play that affects steering precision.
  5. Steering Rack/Gearbox Issues: Internal wear or looseness within the power steering rack itself can cause play in the steering wheel. This is less common than worn linkage components but is a possibility.
  6. Alignment Issues: While a misaligned vehicle typically pulls to one side, severe toe-out can cause a 'wandering' feeling on the highway. However, if there's significant play, it's likely a component issue first.

What to do:

  • Step 1: Inspect for Play: With the vehicle safely lifted on a hoist, have someone wiggle the steering wheel slightly back and forth (engine off) while you observe the steering and suspension components. Look for any excessive movement or looseness in tie rod ends, ball joints, and control arm bushings.
  • Step 2: Wheel Bearing Check: Grab each wheel at the 12 and 6 o'clock positions and try to rock it. Any significant play could indicate a worn wheel bearing or ball joint.
  • Step 3: Tire Inspection: Check your tires for uneven wear patterns, which can sometimes be indicative of alignment or suspension issues.

When to see a shop:

Diagnosing steering and suspension play requires specialized knowledge and tools, including a lift. It is critical to have a professional mechanic inspect your LaCrosse as soon as possible. Worn steering and suspension components can lead to unpredictable handling, accelerated tire wear, and a significant safety risk. Do not delay in getting this checked.

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