Mercedes Steering Problems
Control, safety, comfort and overall driving experience depend on the Mercedes-Benz steering system. In order to maintain its brand reputation and meet its customers’ expectations, Mercedes-Benz places a high premium on the quality and performance of its steering systems.
As with any steering system, Mercedes steering components may wear down over time. In order to keep them in good working condition, they will require maintenance and replacement.
Our Mercedes experts at Quality Car Service are highly skilled at solving any steering issues. If you hear strange noises or are experiencing trouble controlling your vehicle and need steering diagnostics and repairs our technicians will ensure you get back on the road safely.
This blog discusses how the steering system works, why it’s essential to maintain, and the potential cause of a grinding or whining noise in your vehicle.
Let’s explore the steering system in more detail…
The Mechanics of the Mercedes-Benz Steering System
With Mercedes-Benz’s power-assisted steering system, the driver has more control and comfort while steering the vehicle. Depending on the model and technology used, power-assisted steering systems function differently, but here is an overview of how they usually work:
Steering Wheel: The steering wheel is used to change the direction of the vehicle.
Steering Column: When the steering wheel is turned, it rotates a shaft that connects to the column.
Steering Gearbox: Some older Mercedes models use hydraulic power steering gearboxes. However, many Mercedes vehicles now come with electric power steering (EPS). Instead of hydraulic pressure, an electric motor assists with steering in an EPS system. This motor is controlled by the vehicle’s computer system.
Steering Sensors: Sensors continuously monitor the steering inputs and vehicle speed, including the steering angle and vehicle speed sensors. These sensors provide essential data to the vehicle’s control unit.
Control Unit: Sensor data is processed by the control unit, which calculates the needed steering assistance. It adjusts the electric motor’s output accordingly, based on factors like vehicle speed, driving conditions and driver input.
Assistive Force: By generating additional force, the electric motor assists the driver in steering. As a result, turning the steering wheel is easier, especially when parking or driving at low speeds. The system may reduce assistance at higher speeds to enhance driver control and stability.
Safety Features: Many Mercedes-Benz vehicles also include safety features related to the steering system. It may include lane-keeping assist, adaptive steering and other driver assistance systems that use steering inputs to keep the vehicle in its lane, maintain a safe following distance and assist with parking.
Mercedes enhances driver control, comfort and safety in both hydraulic and electric steering systems. In addition, it maintains a connection between the driver and the road while adapting to different driving conditions. There are, however, some differences between Mercedes-Benz models and years in terms of specific technologies and features.
Mercedes Steering Noises and What Causes Them
Experiencing unusual noises while steering your Mercedes-Benz may indicate an underlying issue with the steering system. These are some of the most common causes of steering noise in Mercedes-Benz vehicles:
- Low Power Steering Fluid: Insufficient power steering fluid can cause the steering wheel to whine or groan.
- Worn Power Steering Pump: The power steering pump can develop problems over time, resulting in noise. A ragged or failing power steering pump may cause whining or squealing.
- Damaged Power Steering Hoses: Damaged or cracked power steering hoses can leak fluid, causing noise and steering problems. Hissing may indicate a leaking hose.
- Steering Rack or Gearbox Issues: Clunking or knocking noises when steering can be caused by problems with the steering rack or gearbox. These components will need to be inspected and possibly replaced.
- Ball Joint or Tie Rod Wear: Wearing ball joints or tie rod ends can cause clunking or clicking noises when turning the steering wheel. The steering system is connected to the wheels by these components, which are critical for accurate steering.
- Tyre Issues: During steering manoeuvres, irregular or damaged tyre wear can cause noise. Ensuring your tyres are in good condition and inflated to the correct level is essential.
- Lubrication: Different steering components, such as the steering column or universal joints, can creak or squeak if they are not lubricated.
- Faulty Steering Column: Some steering noises are caused by problems within the steering column itself, such as loose or damaged parts.
In order to diagnose and address steering noises in your Mercedes-Benz, we always recommend that you speak to a qualified technician, like the Mercedes experts at Quality Car Service.
In addition to identifying the exact noise source, our mechanics will perform any necessary repairs or maintenance. When ignored, steering noises may lead to more serious problems and compromise the vehicle’s safety.
Is It Safe to Drive With Unusual Steering Noises?
When you hear strange noises while steering your Mercedes, it’s best to stop driving, especially if you notice changes in steering or warning lights on the dashboard. If you continue to drive in such conditions, you may end up with more severe problems.
If you need clarification on whether it’s safe to drive or if repairs are necessary, consult a mechanic like Quality Car Service. It is always important to put safety first.
Steering System Maintenance for Mercedes-Benz
Let the professionals take care of your Mercedes steering system to ensure it is in the best possible condition. Our workshop at Quality Car Service is a certified Mercedes-Benz garage that can provide maintenance, inspections and repairs to keep you on the road.
Regular steering system checks can help detect early signs of wear, damage or leaks and prevent them from becoming major problems.
We will change your power steering fluid, inspect and repair belts and other components, align your wheels correctly and check your suspension and tyres. If there are any issues, we will be able to fix them the first time. In addition to using genuine Mercedes parts, we follow all Mercedes-Benz maintenance recommendations.
With the help of our Mercedes experts, Quality Car Service can solve any steering issues, removing unwanted noises and ensuring a safe and enjoyable drive.
