Possible issue with steering linkage?

[BigBlueDart]

Okay, I'm still pretty new at all of this and don't really know what I'm talking about. With that disclaimer out of the way, lately I've been noticing that when I make a turn I hear a slight thunk at the end. It seems as if the steering wheel moves the wheels part way, but then after I stop turning the steering wheel the wheels continue a little before stopping. This only happens when moving. And like I said, it's a slight thunk. Is this something I need to be worried about? Should I bring my car in to the dealership, or is this something I could check out myself?

 

[kwaits92]

I have the same issue and it didn't do that. I notice it mostly when I turn left.

 

[drop360]

I've noticed the same thing. It hasn't been constant enough for me to have a professional take a look at it. It's very obvious when it happens, but isn't an everyday occurance for me.

 

[genericmoniker]

Is it when you go full-lock? There is a little rubber "stop" on one of the struts, and that MIGHT be what you're feeling.

 

[kwaits92]

Mines not full lock. It sounds like the sway bar. And I have had issue with my sway bar links loosening. But mine are from airrex.

 

[BigBlueDart]

Mines not on full lock, either. Just any significant turn in the steering wheel and I get the clunk.

 

[kwaits92]

Blue what suspension mods have you done?

 

[BigBlueDart]

The only suspension mod I've done is the CS rear torsion bar. I also had removed my steering wheel to paint the trim, but it doesn't feel like the issue is there to me. Could I be wrong?

 

[Racebrewer]

I occasionally get a similar thunk. It sounds like Macpherson strut coil unloading to me.

With Mac struts the springs can bind and release when the struts pivot.

John

 

[masonjar]

http://www.mazda2revolution.com/forum/showthread.php?t=890

I don't know if this is the issue you are experiencing or not, but it might be worth checking out.

 

[BigBlueDart]

From that it almost sounds like it is the steering column. Could I have caused something by not putting the steering wheel back on right? I mean, it doesn't feel like it has any play up there and I tightened the bolt down pretty well. If I were to bring it in and they saw my blue painted trim would they still fix it under warranty?

 

[kwaits92]

I've never taken my steering wheel off. And I don't have springs.

 

[CorkSport]

I had a problem come up once where an alignment shop left the top knuckle bolt loose and the steering wheel would make a funny noise when turning the wheel. Any of you guys have new struts?

-Derrick

 

[kwaits92]

Kind of..has the airrex on since April. I'll check that when I get a chance.

 

[BigBlueDart]

No new struts for me. Yet.

 

[kwaits92]

Yeah checked the struts. I tightened them a bit but I don't think enough to make a difference. Checked my sway bar, not it. Checked the strut bolts, not it. I'm not exactly sure what it could be.

But now I'm also working on my gf's 2009 Pontiac G6. Her car makes a significantly louder popping noise when turning.

As far as my car goes I'm kinda clueless. And I know if I take it to the dealer they are gonna blame my struts.

 

[Corcaa_Mazda2]

I had a similar problem and dealer replaced the steering column and the rack and pinion. Mazda dealers know about the problem. I wasn't the first with that problem here in San Juan.

 

[CorkSport]

I had a similar problem and dealer replaced the steering column and the rack and pinion. Mazda dealers know about the problem. I wasn't the first with that problem here in San Juan.

Wow, that is a big one to change out. I figured it would be a small component.

-Derrick

 

[kwaits92]

Yeah I don't think that's my problem. Mine only happens over bumps while turning. And it's not even that loud it's just noticeable.

 

[BigBlueDart]

Mine isn't that loud, either. I guess I'm just paranoid about something getting worse if I don't take care of it early.