Car Owner Problem:

Lately I noticed my 1990 Honda Civic car is doing odd things on the road. When driving this car on the highway and if I try to make a slight turn, it seems like the steering wheel won’t return or recover. It does this whether I turn on either right of left. However, if I shake the wheel, it will return to center. I brought the car for a front-end alignment testing and they did not find anything abnormal except a worn upper control arms which were replaced. The power steering pumps seems OK because the power assist is there and the fluid does not look contaminated. I am at my wits end with this car and I hope you can help me.

Car Tire Advisor:

The car is centering the steering wheel using your rack and pinion which is monitored by a speed sensor to adjust power assist. If the car is involved in an accident, the rack and pinion could be bent and will malfunction. Before condemning the rack and pinion, make sure there is nothing binding underneath the car.

To check this car for binding in the rack and pinion, raise the front end and unlock the steering wheel thru the ignition key and then literally turn both front tires back and forth. Feel the tires for binding while you turn them. Then remove the tie rods and feel for binding again in case the ball joints are worn. If not, reconnect everything but this time, disconnect the steering column. If binding still exists, then your rack and pinion is defective.

Always replace the whole rack and pinion of this car. Also, most parts store will offer a good warranty for a rebuilt rack and pinion assembly.

Notes:

When in doubt, bring your car to authorized Honda dealer shop to make sure your tire problem is fixed.