Steering wheel jerked to left

[tambasher]

Why would my 2009 Yaris suddenly jerk to the left while doing 60-65 mph? It would jerk hard only once, but did it 3 times within a few minutes tonight and once earlier today.

[bronsin]

Could be several things. First I would check your tires for bulges/damage. Also check tires pressures.

If possible get the front end up in the air and spin the tires checking for suspension damage/problems.

[tambasher]

Thanks for the reply.
I few days ago I did have a low air pressure in the front. I filled it and checked the rest and have checked them each day, but they have all kept the correct pressure. I have not checked today, but will now.

[CrankyOldMan]

I had that happen on wet pavement once. I think it was bump steer, but it scared me.

[bronsin]

Thanks for the reply.
I few days ago I did have a low air pressure in the front. I filled it and checked the rest and have checked them each day, but they have all kept the correct pressure. I have not checked today, but will now.


Tire pressure sounds OK.

Have you inspected the tires for bulges in the sidewalls or damage of any kind?:iono:

[CTScott]

I had that happen on wet pavement once. I think it was bump steer, but it scared me.

That's a good question for the O.P. - Was the pavement wet when it happened?

A sudden shift in which wheel the differential is driving definitely has an odd feel in slick conditions at speed.

[tambasher]

It happened o the highway and it was bone dry.

[tambasher]

Drove it last night and there seemed to be a slight shake in the steering wheel while driving. I will be crawling under it today to have a look.

[bronsin]

If the steering wheel shakes that's a sign of unbalanced tires. Taking the tires to have them balanced might help and the shop can inspect them for damage like bulges and tread squirm too.

[tambasher]

Jacked up the front end and removed both tires. Everything looked ok, but the front driver's side tire was low again, 28 psi. I usually run all tires at 32 psi, when this all started, that tire was about 25 psi. After doing the inspection, I ran the car a little hard on the streets and also got it up to 80 on the highway, no shaking of the steering wheel and no pulling. I did not see any bulges and could not find a leak. Next I guess I will take it to the shop and have them check the balance and look for a leak.

[sheekeebut]

Check your struts for undampened bounce?
Check your steering for bent or loose parts next time it's hoisted?

Was the jerk motion violent? A reaction to road irregularities, or apparently random?

[WeeYari]

Crosswind!

j/k...maybe :wink:

[bronsin]

Jacked up the front end and removed both tires. Everything looked ok, but the front driver's side tire was low again, 28 psi. I usually run all tires at 32 psi, when this all started, that tire was about 25 psi. After doing the inspection, I ran the car a little hard on the streets and also got it up to 80 on the highway, no shaking of the steering wheel and no pulling. I did not see any bulges and could not find a leak. Next I guess I will take it to the shop and have them check the balance and look for a leak.

OK if the tires look good that's all I can advise you. I doubt the 25-28 psi would make any difference. Good luck and tell us what you find out!

[enviri]

Did you ever had your control arm bolt replaced at dealer?

[tambasher]

Struts react normally when I push down and bounce them myself.
I didn't see anything bent or loose.
it was a quick jerk and the car moved, but stayed in my lane.

[sheekeebut]

I'd try to retrace my steps on that stretch of road, see if I can repeat the symptom. Of course, my knuckles will be white and my heart rate up to like 120.

[tambasher]

is there a recall on the control arm bolt and would that cause the jerk?

[bronsin]

is there a recall on the control arm bolt and would that cause the jerk?


Yes theres a recall and if the bolt breaks or is dammaged that could concievably cause your problem.

[WeeYari]

There was no actual recall issued on the bolt. There was a TSB, and eventually a warranty extension granted to the bolt.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[BLH]

I got an extended warranty period. Just for the bolts not an official recall.

[tambasher]

So, I think I know what the problem was. It was the road. Never had another incident until 2 days ago on the same stretch of highway in the same spot. Thanks for the suggestions and help.

[bronsin]

Had the same thing happen on a stretch of the NJ TPK. Every time I was on this particular section my motorcycle was all over the road!