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Loose steering and wandering on my 2017 Crosstrek

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Mark S. · rep 0 · May 22, 3:16 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2017 Subaru Crosstrek Limited

Hey everyone, I've got a 2017 Subaru Crosstrek Limited with about 85,000 miles. Lately, the steering has felt really loose, almost like I'm constantly correcting to keep it going straight. It feels like it's wandering on the highway, and I've noticed my tires are wearing a bit unevenly on the outer edges.

It's making long drives pretty tiring. I had an alignment done about a year ago, but this feels different. Could it be something with the suspension or steering components? What should I be looking at?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 3:16 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Loose steering, wandering, and uneven tire wear on your 2017 Crosstrek are classic indicators of worn steering or suspension components, or an alignment issue. Here's a guide to diagnosing the problem:

  1. Initial Inspection:

    • Examine your tires closely for uneven wear patterns, especially on the inner or outer edges. This can provide clues about specific alignment or component issues.
    • Check tire pressure on all four tires. Incorrect pressure can significantly impact steering feel and handling.

  2. Common Causes:

    • Worn Tie Rod Ends: Both inner and outer tie rod ends can wear out, leading to excessive play in the steering system, causing wandering and requiring constant corrections.
    • Worn Ball Joints: Loose lower ball joints can affect steering precision and stability, contributing to a wandering feel.
    • Wheel Bearings: While often associated with humming noises, a severely worn wheel bearing can introduce play into the wheel assembly, affecting steering and alignment.
    • Control Arm Bushings: Degraded control arm bushings can allow the wheel to move excessively, leading to alignment changes and a loose feel.
    • Steering Rack Issues: Less common, but wear within the steering rack itself can cause play. This is usually a more expensive repair.
    • Alignment: Even if you had an alignment a year ago, worn components or hitting a large pothole can throw it off again. Uneven tire wear strongly suggests an alignment problem, possibly caused by worn parts.

  3. When to See a Shop:

    • If you notice significant play in the steering wheel when the car is stationary and off.
    • If you hear clunking or popping noises when turning or going over bumps.
    • Any time you suspect a critical steering or suspension component is failing, as it directly impacts vehicle control and safety. A professional can perform a thorough suspension and steering inspection, identify worn parts, and perform a precise alignment after any repairs.
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