Binding Steering

The strut mounts mount the upper portion of the strut to the vehicle body. A worn or damaged strut mount results in vibration and noise. The rubber insulator of the mount gets dry and wears over time, resulting in a clunking sound when traveling over bumps. The bearing wears and begins to bind.

They contain a rubber insulator and typically a bearing insert. The insulator insulates and prevents vibrations from transferring to the body. The bearing insert provides a smooth pivot point for the steering system; a faulty strut bearing results in a bind while turning the steering wheel.

Rack and pinion gears are installed on (FWD) front-wheel-drive vehicles instead of a recirculating ball gearbox. The pinion gear and the rack gear remain in constant mesh. The power steering system assists the gear during turns. The pinion and rack gears can bind if worn or not adjusted properly.

Worn rack bushings cause steering problems like wandering. The rack moves in the worn bushings as the vehicle turns or hits bumps in the road. As the vehicle travels, this movement causes constant changes in the vehicle's toe.