How to Check Steering of a Used Car? | CarVaidya’s Expert Guide

When buying a used car, most people focus on the engine, body condition, or mileage — but often overlook one of the most crucial components: the steering system. A faulty or misaligned steering can lead to poor handling, unsafe driving, and expensive repair bills later on. Before finalizing your purchase, it’s essential to know how to check the steering of a used car effectively.

In this guide, CarVaidya- India’s trusted platform for used car inspection and pre-delivery checks (PDI) — breaks down everything you need to know about checking a car’s steering system before you buy it.

Why Checking the Steering Matters

A car’s steering system directly affects your driving control, comfort, and safety. If the steering has excessive play, stiffness, vibrations, or noise, it’s a red flag that the vehicle may have hidden issues like a worn-out steering rack, low power steering fluid, or damaged suspension parts.

Ignoring steering inspection can lead to:

• Increased repair costs later
• Safety risks while driving at high speed
• Difficulty in cornering or parking
• Uneven tire wear

That’s why CarVaidya recommends every buyer perform a detailed steering inspection during a used car checkup.

1. Start with a Stationary Steering Check

Before even turning on the engine, sit inside the car and hold the steering wheel firmly.

• Check for play or looseness: Move the steering slightly left and right. Ideally, it should have a minimal free play (not more than 1–2 inches).
• Observe alignment: The steering wheel should be perfectly centered when the front wheels are straight.
• Inspect steering cover and horn pad: Check for excessive wear or wobbling, as that may indicate heavy usage or steering column issues.

2. Power Steering Fluid Inspection

If the car has hydraulic power steering, open the hood and locate the power steering fluid reservoir.

• Fluid level: It should be between the MIN and MAX marks.
• Fluid color: Healthy fluid is usually red or pink. Dark, brown, or black fluid means contamination or overdue replacement.
• Leaks: Inspect around the power steering pump, reservoir, and hoses for any oil stains or drips.

Low fluid levels or leaks could lead to steering stiffness and expensive repair work later.

🔧 Pro Tip from CarVaidya: Always check the service record for fluid replacements and steering-related maintenance.

3. Test the Steering During Idle

Start the engine and gently rotate the steering from lock to lock (full left to full right).

• The motion should be smooth and silent.
• If you hear grinding, whining, or knocking noises, it indicates wear in the steering pump or rack.
• There should be no jerks or stiffness while turning.

4. Steering Response While Driving

Now comes the real test — a short test drive. This is where you can truly feel how the car responds.

Pay attention to these factors:

• Straight-line tracking: The car should go straight when you let go of the steering slightly on a flat road. If it drifts to one side, it might need wheel alignment or suspension repair.
• Steering feedback: It should feel responsive, not too light or too hard.
• Turning radius: During U-turns, the steering should return to the center position automatically after you release it.
• Noise or vibration: If you feel vibration through the steering wheel, it could mean uneven tires, suspension imbalance, or bent rims.

5. Check for Steering Column and Rack Condition

The steering column and rack are the backbone of the steering system.

• Open the bonnet and inspect the steering rack boots — they should be clean and free from oil or dust.
• Any leak near the rack ends means a damaged seal or worn rack.
• During driving, if you hear clunking or knocking noises, it could be from the steering column universal joint or tie rods.

These components are expensive to replace, so catching the issue early can save you a lot.

6. Check for Power Steering (Hydraulic/Electric) Functionality

Modern cars come with either Hydraulic Power Steering (HPS) or Electric Power Steering (EPS) systems.

Hydraulic Power Steering:

• Requires regular fluid checks.
• If the steering feels stiff or noisy, it may indicate pump failure.
• Look for fluid leaks under the car.

Electric Power Steering:

• No fluid required.
• If you see a warning light on the dashboard, it may indicate sensor or motor failure.
• During slow-speed turns, if it feels inconsistent, it could be an EPS calibration issue.

7. Wheel Alignment and Suspension Check

Steering and alignment are closely linked. If the steering wheel is misaligned or shakes while driving, it’s usually not just the steering’s fault — it’s also the wheel alignment or suspension system.

To test:

• Drive straight and observe if the car pulls to one side.
• Check tire wear patterns — uneven wear indicates bad alignment or suspension bush issues.
• While parked, press down on the front end; it should bounce smoothly once and settle. Repeated bouncing indicates worn shock absorbers or struts.

8. Check Steering Mounts and Bushes

Steering mounts and bushes connect the steering system to the car’s frame.

• A worn bush causes vibration and play in steering.
• You can ask a mechanic to inspect the steering rack mounts and tie rod ends.

If these are damaged, it’s a sign of rough driving or accident history — something you definitely want to avoid.

9. Check the Steering Warning Lights

Modern cars are equipped with steering-related dashboard warnings such as:

• EPS (Electric Power Steering) Warning Light
• Steering Lock Indicator

If any of these remain ON after ignition, it’s a clear sign of electrical or mechanical steering fault. Always ensure the dashboard lights behave normally before making the deal.

10. Get a Professional Steering & PDI Inspection from CarVaidya

While self-checking is a great start, nothing beats a professional car inspection.
CarVaidya’s expert technicians use advanced car scanning tools and test drives to check:

• Steering column and rack condition
• Power steering fluid and motor performance
• Suspension and alignment issues
• Hidden accident or frame damages

With a detailed CarVaidya Used Car Inspection Report, you get a complete overview of your car’s health — ensuring you buy confidently and avoid future breakdowns.

Buying a used car can be a smart choice — but only if you inspect it the right way. The steering system check is one of the most vital steps to ensure safety, comfort, and reliability. From checking the steering play and alignment to inspecting the power steering fluid and rack, every small detail matters.

For a worry-free used car purchase, book your comprehensive car inspection with CarVaidya today. Our experts make sure you drive home not just with a car — but with complete peace of mind.