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Loose Steering and Wandering on my 2022 Eclipse Cross SEL

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Mark S. · rep 0 · May 22, 5:32 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross SEL

Hey everyone,

I've been noticing a concerning issue with the steering on my 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross SEL. It feels like there's a lot of play in the steering wheel, and the car tends to wander a bit on the highway, requiring constant small corrections to keep it straight. It just doesn't feel as tight and responsive as it used to.

The car only has about 30,000 miles on it, so I wouldn't expect major wear components to be failing already. Could this be an alignment issue, or something more serious like a tie rod or ball joint? I'm hoping it's something simple.

Any thoughts or similar experiences with newer Eclipse Cross models?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 5:32 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Loose steering and a tendency for the vehicle to wander are definite signs that something is amiss in your 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross SEL's steering or suspension system. While 30,000 miles is relatively low, premature wear can occur, or it could be something simpler.

  1. Potential Causes for Loose Steering/Wandering:

    • Wheel Alignment: This is a very common cause. If your alignment is off (especially toe settings), the car will pull or wander, requiring constant steering corrections. This can happen gradually due to hitting potholes or curbs.
    • Worn Tie Rod Ends: Both inner and outer tie rod ends are critical for steering precision. If they develop play, you'll feel looseness in the steering wheel and the car will wander.
    • Worn Ball Joints: Worn lower or upper ball joints can introduce play into the suspension, affecting steering stability.
    • Worn Control Arm Bushings: Deteriorated bushings in the control arms can allow excessive movement, leading to wandering and poor handling.
    • Steering Rack/Gearbox Issues: While less common at 30,000 miles, internal wear or looseness in the steering rack itself can cause play.
    • Tire Issues: Uneven tire wear, incorrect tire pressure, or even a damaged tire can sometimes mimic steering issues.

  2. When to See a Shop:

    • Promptly: Any issue affecting steering control is a significant safety concern. While it might not be an immediate breakdown, compromised steering can lead to loss of control, especially at highway speeds or during emergency maneuvers. Get it inspected as soon as possible.

What a Shop Will Do:

  • Comprehensive Suspension and Steering Inspection: A technician will lift the vehicle and physically check for play in all steering and suspension components, including tie rod ends, ball joints, control arm bushings, and the steering rack.
  • Wheel Alignment Check: They will put the vehicle on an alignment rack to measure all alignment angles and determine if they are within specifications.
  • Tire Inspection: They will check tire pressure, tread wear patterns, and for any signs of damage.

Given the low mileage, it's possible it's an alignment issue, but a thorough inspection is necessary to rule out any worn components that could compromise your safety.

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