Loose Steering

[lexusisfan]

Hi everyone!

Here I am once again, for some advise from fellow members.

I've replaced the four tyres on my Lexus a few weeks ago, and since then I've noticed that when I'm driving, the steering has become very loose as if I can feel every single bump and pothole on the road.

Also, when I'm driving at 30 or 40mph I feel that the steering becomes very light.

I used to love driving it around, but now for some reason it doesnt feel safe and it drives rubbish.

I have taken it to my mechanic, he had a good look round and everything is normal, apart from a very slight leak on one of the front shock absorbers, which according to him doesnt seriously affect the driving.

He suggested that I should try and get the tracking sorted, but I would like to hear from anyone who may have experienced a similar issue before I start messing around with it.

Your suggestions would be much appreciated.

Thank you very much.

[petayV8]

uno what i have found this as well. I didnt mention it because i thought it was just the characteristics of the car. Ive only owned 2 other cars in my life so havent had much driving experience. I got my brakes all done at the front because i had a sticky one and after its been sorted have found the steering is twitchy and light. I am putting it down to being RWD but i think its totally normal because i know theres nothing wrong with it. Arent sporty type cars suppose to give you feedback thru the steering?

[lexusisfan]

I get what you are saying, but it is very strange, as I've been driving it for 2.5 years and never experienced it before. It feels that its giving way too much feedback through the steering.

[matt-c]

That's the complete opposite of what I've found with my IS - the steering feels solid and planted, no twitchyness or play in it. It's not heavy or stiff, and to be fair could be a little more responsive, but it shouldn't be overly light or twitchy.

Get it down to Chesham to see Tony @ Wheels In-Motion; they'll give the geometry a complete overhaul to their settings and it'll feel better than ever

[sjrainsford]

Not wanting to teach you to suck eggs but, check the tyre pressures if you havent already done so. A lot of tyre fitters arent exactly careful with the finer details in my experience.

[Cmayne]

Guys, I had same problem and took it in to have the tracking done - transpired that the ball joints on the suspension ams had significant play and needed these sorted before any tracking was done. I got the work done and Since then my IS200 now feels planted and more confident with no steering wobble above 60mph.

[petayV8]

Well get this. I live in a med-evil town and when i drive over cobbles and let go of the steering wheel its all over the show. Tyres all at 36 psi. so suspension arms eh? makes sense, they do look a bit worse for ware tbh

[darkoracle]

You don't say if you changed the tyres for the same brand. Were they fitted by a reputable garage/tyre fitter?

Just wondering if you have directional tyres. Are they fitted in the correct orientation?