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Steering column feels loose or wobbles up and down: Causes & How to Fix It

If your vehicle is showing steering column feels loose or wobbles up and down, here are the most likely causes and the parts you'll need to fix each one.

Most likely causes

Worn Tilt Steering Mechanism / Pivot Pinsaddress soon

The pivot pins or locking mechanism that allow the steering wheel to tilt up and down have worn out or loosened over time, causing a wobbly feeling even when locked.

Loose Steering Wheel Retaining Nuturgent

The main nut securing the steering wheel to the column shaft is loose. This is almost always due to improper tightening after a recent steering wheel, clockspring, or turn signal switch replacement.

Loose Steering Column Mounting Boltsurgent

The bolts that secure the entire steering column assembly to the dashboard structure have backed out or were not properly tightened after under-dash work.

Worn Steering Column Internal Bearingsaddress soon

The internal bearings that support the steering shaft inside the column housing have failed or disintegrated, allowing the shaft to move laterally inside the tube.

Related problems

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