Reasons Behind Steering Column Failure in European Cars

The steering column is a critical component in your European car’s power steering system as it serves as the mechanical and electronic connection between the steering wheel and the steering rack. In fact, the swift handling of your European car is often attributed to the efficient functioning of the steering column.

However, issues with the functioning of the steering column in your European car can make it very difficult for you to drive your vehicle with ease. There are several factors that can lead to steering column failure in European cars. In this article, we will discuss the reasons behind steering column failure in European cars.

Reasons Behind Steering Column Failure

Malfunctioning Steering Column Bearings and Bushings

The steering column in your high-end European car comes equipped with several bushings and bearings that play an important role in supporting the steering shaft, and makes it possible for its smooth rotation while helping make proper alignment.

Now, these components are meant to reduce friction and make sure the steering wheel turns effortlessly without any fuss. Nevertheless, over the years, as your vehicle gains miles the constant movement, road vibrations, dirt contamination, moisture exposure, and degrading lubrication can lead to the bearings and bushings wearing out eventually.

Now, when the bearings and bushings in your European car begin to fail, then steering shaft is going to develop excessive movement, which can lead to loose steering, clunking noises, and a grinding sensation when turning the steering wheel in your vehicle.

In addition to that, drivers might also get to experience uneven steering resistance or vibrations that becomes especially noticeable when driving at high speeds. This is when you must get in touch with a certified auto repair technician to get your steering column inspected and fixed accordingly.

Defective Electronic Steering Lock

Nowadays, there are many European cars that are coming equipped with electronic steering lock system that works in sync with the vehicle’s immobilizer, ignition system, and onboard computers. In fact, the electronic steering system comes with a small electric motor and locking mechanism to help secure the steering wheel when the engine is turned off and automatically unlock the steering when the key fob is detected.

Eventually it is seen that the internal motor, gears, locking pin, and electronic circuitry can fail due to continuous working, underlying electrical problems, and normal aging. This is when you will find that the steering wheel of your vehicle remains locked even when you insert the correct key, and this prevents the vehicle from starting.

This is when you are also going to come across warning messages in the form of "steering lock malfunction" or face intermittent ignition issues. Moreover, as the electronic steering lock works in sync with various security features in your European car, its repair and replacement must be carried out by a professional mechanics quickly.

Faulty Steering Angle Sensor

There are numerous sensors used in European vehicles to help monitor the functioning of the critical components in the car, and the information gathered by these sensors is used by the control module to control the functioning of the components.

The steering angle sensor is one such important sensor in your vehicle, located near the steering column, it helps in measuring the steering wheel’s position and angle, while transmitting the information to the other components of your European car.

In fact, the information passed on the by the steering angle sensor is used by Electronic Stability Control, Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS), Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist, and Traction Control in your vehicle to help adjust the speed and handling of the vehicle.

Damage From Collisions or Road Hazards

Another prominent reason behind steering column failure in high-end European cars is linked to the way you drive your vehicle. Often it is witnessed that steering columns in European cars are prone to damages caused by severe road impacts.

In fact, minor collisions have the potential to bend the steering shaft, damage universal joints, distort mounting brackets or completely misalign the collapsible steering column assembly. In addition to that, if you hit large potholes, curbs, and speed bumps at high speeds, then it can adversely affect the functioning of the steering column in your vehicle.

Finally

The above-discussed factors are some of the leading factors behind steering column failure in high-end European cars. In fact, the moment you come across any issues with the functioning of the steering column in your vehicle, then you must get your steering system inspected and fixed by a professional mechanic immediately.

At Bertini’s located in Roseville, CA we specialize in looking after luxury European cars that are known for their performance. Our state-of-the-art facility is equipped with the latest tools & equipment to diagnose and fix the problems.