Car spins when steering is turned to an extreme?

Tiny
RAPTUROS
  • MEMBER
  • 2007 TOYOTA CAMRY
  • 2.4L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 60,200 MILES
When the wheel is turned all the way in one direction or the other the car begins to spin in that direction as if it had a life of its own, like it was caught in a whirlpool. This happens in reverse as well.

The power steering fluid was just replaced as well as the brake fluid and the transmission fluid and the oil and the spark plugs because I just bought the car used and have no knowledge of the previous owner’s maintenance history. Otherwise, the car is running great.

Also, there is a slight "squirm" in the steering wheel as I hit the extreme limit of where the steering wheel can turn to while backing up as well as going forward (when going at low speed like in a parking lot).
Monday, May 20th, 2024 AT 7:45 PM

5 Replies

Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 48,363 POSTS
This is a strange problem; can I ask if the wheel alignment has been done? Can I get a video of the problem uploaded to your response? There are stops on the lower control arm that might be gone which limits how far the front wheels can turn, have you had the car up on lift for inspection?
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Tuesday, May 21st, 2024 AT 8:32 AM
Tiny
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Yes, when the car had its rear brakes replaced a few weeks ago including the worn rotors I had them do an alignment also. Then when the motor mounts were replaced a week ago the strong shudder in the steering wheel went away but there is still a small amount of vibration in the steering wheel when the car is running but at rest.
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Thursday, May 23rd, 2024 AT 11:29 AM
Tiny
KEN L
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Can you upload a short video of what the problem is? I have never heard this kind of thing happening.
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Friday, May 24th, 2024 AT 12:41 PM
Tiny
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One thing I read in an online post was that tie rods or maybe it’s the control arms have a “limiter” sleeve that can come off or wear out. Have you heard of this phenomenon?
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Friday, May 24th, 2024 AT 1:53 PM
Tiny
KEN L
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Not really, usually the limiter is on the lower suspension control arm.
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Saturday, May 25th, 2024 AT 10:18 AM

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