If your vehicle is showing lurching or binding feeling in the steering when turning at low speeds, here are the most likely causes and the parts you'll need to fix each one.
Low hydraulic fluid or a slipping drive belt causes the power steering pump to intermittently lose pressure, creating a sudden lurching or heavy binding sensation when turning at low speeds.
Worn outer CV joints can bind up during tight, low-speed turns. This mechanical binding causes a lurching or hopping feeling in the front end, often accompanied by a clicking noise.
The bearings at the top of the front struts allow the suspension to pivot. When they seize from rust or wear, the coil spring binds up and suddenly releases, causing a lurching feel and a 'clunk' in the steering.
Driving a part-time 4WD vehicle on dry pavement, or having degraded fluid in an AWD transfer case or limited-slip differential, causes the driveline to bind. The tires will scrub and lurch during tight parking maneuvers.
Internal wear in the power steering pump can cause inconsistent hydraulic pressure. This leads to a jerky, binding steering wheel at low speeds when the pump is under the highest load.
The universal joints in the steering column or intermediate shaft can rust and seize. This causes a stiff, binding feeling that typically occurs every quarter-turn or half-turn of the steering wheel.
Extreme toe angles or incorrectly installed steering components after recent suspension work can cause the front tires to fight each other, scrubbing and skipping during tight turns.
Worn internal gears, valves, or seals in the steering rack can cause mechanical binding or inconsistent hydraulic assist, leading to a lurching steering wheel.