Catchy Steering

fivexdad · Post by **fivexdad** » 07 Jun 2021, 08:53

Our 2006 XC90 (the one with the shock and spring issue) has another issue I have been trying to figure out. The steering has a spot where it feels really catchy. It is only really noticable at high speeds and typically when making a slight turn to round a curve. The steering will sort of catch and resist going further and then sometimes quickly jerk and go beyond what you want as you pressure it past the catchy spot. We have had it checked out and replaced the steering coupler in the column inside the rubber boot which was really worn and stiff. But that hasn't really helped the problem. It has been suggested to me that the little roller bearing inside the rubber boot could also be causing this. Has anyone else had this problem?

Post by **SuperHerman** » 08 Jun 2021, 14:35

By "rubber boot" do you mean the one inside the car that goes through the firewall? If so, peel it back and spray it with some WD40 or similar. If the grease is gummed up this should thin it down. If it resolves the problem do a deep clean and grease.

There is also a bolt on the steering rack that can be tightened to rid play - it is possible the other issues caused some loosening here.

fivexdad · Post by **fivexdad** » 09 Jun 2021, 05:59

Thanks! I'll try those things when my daughter gets back home with the vehicle next week.

Post by **seggs** » 09 Jun 2021, 21:49

One question, are there any signs of power steering fluid seeping through the cap on the reservoir? If so, potentially try replacing the gasket on the reservoir cap. Few years ago, I had a similar issue where the power steering was cutting out around corners. Might be the same as the “catching” you describe. I noticed wet fluid around the cap. I replaced the seal, topped off the fluid and it’s been good.