Inner Tie Rod and Steering Rack Knocking
ModerateSteeringThe steering gear on the Ignis is susceptible to premature wear in the inner steering tie rod axial ball joints. Road impacts from potholes and aggressive kerbing transmit shock loads directly through the steering rack ends, creating mechanical play within the joint sockets. This results in an audible clunk or knock through the steering wheel when turning from lock to lock while stationary, alongside wandering steering at higher road speeds and MOT test rejection.
Distinct clunking or knocking noise felt through the steering wheel when turning from lock to lock, Vague on-centre steering feel and tendency for the vehicle to wander on straight roads, Uneven feathering or scrub wear on the inner edges of both front tyres
- With the vehicle stationary and engine running, rock the steering wheel briskly from left to right
- Jack up the front wheels and grasp the tyre at 9 and 3 o'clock to test for horizontal play
- Inspect steering rack gaiter rubber boots for splits that allow water into the inner joints