2019 Q60 Red Sport - Steering feels loose, car pulls slightly

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 22, 5:06 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2019 Infiniti Q60 Red Sport 400

Hey everyone,

I've got a 2019 Infiniti Q60 Red Sport 400 with about 30,000 miles on it. Lately, I've noticed the steering feels a bit 'off.' It's not as precise as it used to be, feeling a little loose or vague, especially at highway speeds. It almost feels like I have to make constant small corrections to keep it going straight.

On top of that, I've started to notice a slight pull to the right. It's not severe, but if I let go of the wheel for a second, it definitely drifts. I haven't hit any major potholes recently, and my tire pressures are all good. I'm worried this might be an alignment issue or something more serious with the steering or suspension.

Has anyone with a Q60 experienced this? What should I be looking for? Thanks for any insights!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Loose steering and a vehicle pulling to one side are classic indicators of issues within the steering or suspension system. For your 2019 Infiniti Q60 Red Sport 400, here's what could be happening:

  1. Common Causes of Loose Steering/Pulling:

    • Wheel Alignment: This is the most frequent cause of a vehicle pulling and can also contribute to a vague steering feel. Even minor impacts or normal wear can throw off alignment.
    • Tire Issues:
      • Uneven Tire Wear: If one tire is significantly more worn than others, it can cause a pull.
      • Tire Conicity: A manufacturing defect where the tire is slightly cone-shaped can cause a persistent pull.
      • Tire Pressure: While you've checked this, even a slight difference can cause a pull.
    • Worn Suspension Components:
      • Ball Joints: Worn ball joints can introduce play into the suspension, leading to loose steering.
      • Control Arm Bushings: Degraded bushings allow excessive movement, affecting alignment and steering precision.
      • Tie Rod Ends: Worn inner or outer tie rod ends can cause play in the steering, making it feel loose and affecting alignment.
    • Steering Rack Issues: Less common, but a worn steering rack or power steering system issues could contribute to a vague feel.
    • Brake Drag: A caliper that isn't fully releasing can cause a slight drag on one wheel, leading to a pull. This is often accompanied by heat from the wheel.
  2. What to Do:

    • Professional Inspection: The first step should be a professional inspection. A qualified technician will:
      • Perform a thorough visual inspection of all steering and suspension components for wear or damage.
      • Check for play in ball joints, tie rod ends, and wheel bearings.
      • Inspect tires for uneven wear patterns or damage.
      • Perform a comprehensive wheel alignment check.
  3. When to See a Shop:

    • Immediately: Steering and handling issues are safety-critical. Do not delay in getting this checked.
    • Alignment First: Often, a proper four-wheel alignment will resolve the pulling and improve steering feel, assuming no worn components are found.
    • Component Replacement: If worn components are identified (e.g., tie rod ends, control arm bushings), they must be replaced before an alignment can be performed correctly.

Addressing these issues promptly will restore your Q60's precise handling and ensure your safety on the road.