Few car defects are more dangerous than a faulty steering system, yet steering failure issues are widespread in Los Angeles. These systems are also expensive to fix and can keep your car in the shop for weeks or months.
You shouldn’t have to pay the price or risk your safety because of a steering failure issue. If your defective steering system qualifies your vehicle as a lemon, the Los Angeles Lemon Law attorneys from The Barry Law Firm can protect your rights and help you hold the manufacturer accountable. Lemon Law claims are all we do, and we never charge for our services – regardless of the outcome of the case. Reach out now for a FAST & FREE consultation to learn more.
Signs of a Faulty Steering System
Some potential warning signs that your car’s steering system is failing include:
- Dashboard warning light – Many cars have a power steering warning light that turns on when the system detects a problem.
- Difficulty turning the wheel – If your steering wheel feels heavy or hard to move, especially at low speeds, there might be a problem with the car’s power steering system.
- Unusual noises – Whining, squealing, or groaning sounds when you turn the wheel may signal low power steering fluid, a worn belt, or pump issues.
- Steering wheel vibration – A wheel that shakes or vibrates while driving often suggests there are problems with steering components or the car’s alignment.
- Pulling to one side – If your car drifts or pulls without input, the steering system may not be holding control properly.
- Loose or wandering steering – When the steering feels unstable, sloppy, or unresponsive, it may mean your car has worn tie rods, a failing rack, or other damaged parts.
- Delayed response – If you notice a lag between turning the wheel and the car responding, it may indicate a breakdown in the steering mechanism.
- Grinding or clunking – Strange mechanical noises while steering could result from damage to internal steering parts.
- Steering fluid leaks – Puddles or stains under the car, especially red or pink fluid, may be a sign of leaking power steering fluid.
How Can a Defective Steering System Be Dangerous?
A defective steering system puts you in danger every time you drive. If the wheel locks up or becomes difficult to move, you could lose control of your car when you need it most. Even a brief delay in steering response can make it impossible to avoid a collision.
Your car could also suddenly veer off course when the steering system fails. Pulling to one side or drifting on the road creates a serious hazard, especially at highway speeds or in heavy traffic. You may even notice the steering feels loose or unpredictable, which makes it harder to keep your vehicle steady in your lane.
Leaking steering fluid and worn components further increase the risk of steering system failures. Without proper pressure and support, the system cannot respond the way it should. These problems can turn routine driving into a life-threatening situation for you, your passengers, and others on the road.
Steps to Take If You Have a Suspected Faulty Steering System
Follow these steps if you suspect your car’s steering is failing or has already broken down:
- Schedule an inspection. Make an appointment with the authorized dealership’s service department as soon as you notice steering problems. Early checks can prevent the issue from getting worse.
- Avoid unnecessary driving. Limit how often you use the car until you know more about the problem. Avoiding unnecessary trips reduces the risk to you and others.
- Check for signs at home. Look for fluid leaks under the car and pay attention to unusual noises, stiffness, or looseness in the wheel. Write down what you notice so you can explain it to the mechanic.
- Gather repair history. Collect receipts, service records, and any past notes related to steering or similar issues. A complete file makes it easier to show a pattern of problems.
- Keep written notes. Record the dates, symptoms, and conditions when you notice steering trouble. Consistent documentation builds a stronger case if the issue continues.
- Follow up on repairs. If the shop replaces any parts or adjusts your steering system, pay close attention to how the car performs afterward. Report any repeat vehicle issues right away.
- Learn about your legal protections. The California Lemon Law may apply if your steering problems remain after the manufacturer’s multiple repair attempts while under warranty. A Lemon Law attorney can explain your options.
When Does a Steering Failure Issue Make Your Car a Lemon in LA?
The California Lemon Law protects you when your car has a substantial defect that affects its safety, use, or value. Steering failure issues generally fall into this category because they directly impact your ability to control the vehicle.
For your car to qualify as a lemon, the defect must be covered by the manufacturer’s original warranty, and the issue must have started while the warranty was still in effect. You must also give the manufacturer, usually through the authorized dealership, a reasonable number of chances to fix the steering problem.
The number of attempts that counts as reasonable depends on the danger involved. If the steering defect poses a serious safety risk, two or more failed repairs may be enough. In some cases, a car may qualify as a lemon if it spends excessive time out of service for repairs.
What Damages Can You Claim If You Have a Lemon?
If your vehicle qualifies as a lemon, you can demand that the manufacturer buy it back. A Lemon Law buyback requires the manufacturer to repurchase your vehicle and reimburse you for expenses tied to the car, including your:
- Down payment
- Monthly payments
- Remaining loan or lease balance
- Sales tax, registration fees, and other official charges
- Repair expenses
- Towing fees
- Rental cars and other alternative transportation costs
California’s Lemon Law also requires the manufacturer to pay the consumer’s legal costs in a successful claim. And when you work with The Barry Law Firm, you’ll never get a bill from us, no matter the outcome of your case.
Contact a Los Angeles Lemon Law Attorney If You Need Help
The Barry Law Firm’s in-depth experience with Lemon Law claims makes us well-suited to help you pursue relief for your car’s steering failure issues. For 15 years, we have focused exclusively on California Lemon Law cases, helping thousands of consumers get justice for their lemon vehicles. Call now or complete our contact form for a FAST & FREE consultation with a Los Angeles Lemon Law attorney.
