Hi everyone, I’m dealing with a frustrating issue on my 2017 Kia Sorento EX. The steering feels like it’s ‘sticking,’ especially when I slightly turn to the right. It doesn’t return to center on its own—I have to manually bring it back. I’ve taken it to two Kia dealerships (Crowley in Bristol and Blasius Kia of Watertown), but they both say nothing is wrong. Even my relative is nervous driving it. Should I go back to the dealership or try a private repair shop? Also, could this be related to struts, tie rod ends, or the steering gear?
It sounds like a problem with the strut bearings or possibly the tie rod ends. I’d start by having those inspected first.
JenifaLopes said:
It sounds like a problem with the strut bearings or possibly the tie rod ends. I’d start by having those inspected first.
Thanks! I’ll ask the shop to check those. Do you think it’s better to go to the dealership for this?
@Calvine
If your private shop has experience with steering systems, they should be able to handle it. Dealerships can be pricier.
This might also be related to the steering gear. If it’s binding, that could explain why the wheel doesn’t return to center.
Yoon said:
This might also be related to the steering gear. If it’s binding, that could explain why the wheel doesn’t return to center.
Good point. Would that be something a private shop can fix, or is it better left to the dealership?
@Calvine
Most private shops can handle it if they have the right tools. It might save you some money compared to the dealer.
If the car has original struts, they might be worn out and causing the issue. Strut replacement could help.
MiaKiaTalker said:
If the car has original struts, they might be worn out and causing the issue. Strut replacement could help.
That makes sense. The car’s at 41,000 miles, so it’s possible the struts are going bad. Thanks for the suggestion!
Don’t forget to check the ball joints. Binding in the joints can also lead to steering issues like this.
Jean said:
Don’t forget to check the ball joints. Binding in the joints can also lead to steering issues like this.
I’ll have the ball joints inspected too. Thanks for the advice!
You could try contacting Kia corporate if the dealerships keep brushing this off. Sometimes they’ll push the dealers to take a closer look.
Stella said:
You could try contacting Kia corporate if the dealerships keep brushing this off. Sometimes they’ll push the dealers to take a closer look.
I hadn’t thought of that. I’ll keep that as an option if I don’t get anywhere with the repair shops.