Steering

[Mavis Griffiths]

The steering on my Ford Fiesta Ghia XReg seems a bit stiff and feels heavy then, as though it wants to lock but really not sure whether it is normal or not. Had the car for two years in June. Not mentioned it to my husband as he always says if I mention something that I think is a problem, 'it is your imagination' and that it is alright for him. Be glad of any advice.

[Phil]

Hi Mavis and welcome to the forum.

The first thing I would check, is your tire pressures. Something as simple as one tire haveing lower pressure than the other can make the steering feel heavier or can even make the car tend to drift in one direction while driving in a straight line.

A couple of questions for you:

Is the steering wheel very hard to turn when the car is stationary? (can you easly get a full lock when the car is not moving)

Does the car drift to one side when driving in a straight line?

Does the steering wheel shake alot when traveling over 50 mph?

Let me know.

[Mavis Griffiths]

Hi Phil,

Not sure if you my reply was sent, I will try again. Many thanks for replying so soon. Actually I did mention to my husband this morning about the steering and he has just gone out in the car and said he will check it. Also he said that he would check the tyre pressure so we will see what he finds then. That could be problem like you suggest. I will answer your questions as follows:

Yes, the steering wheel I think is hard to turn when the car is stationary, but will check it. Sorry I am vague.

I am not sure if the car drifts I will have to check it. Also vague with this one.

The steering wheel does not shake when over 50 mph.

I will get back to you soon and once again many thanks.

[Mavis Griffiths]

Phil,

Said I would get back. The tyres have had the pressure done. The steering does seem better so perhaps this was the problem. I will ask he garage to check it properly when he service is done soon.

Many thanks for your help.

[Phil]

Hi Mavis,

Glad to hear that the steering is working better for you now. Yes I think its a good idea to get the garage to take a look at the steering on its next service.

If any problems arise from the service, let us know.