Steering problems

NOAH956

MEMBER
2007 CHEVROLET IMPALA
3.5L
V6
2WD
AUTOMATIC
170,000 MILES

I hit a curb two weeks ago going about 35 mph. I had flatten my tire and bent my front driver side steel wheel but got a used tire and repaired the steel wheel.
I noticed the car would go too much to the right side. Two days ago I had gotten a leaking rack and pinion replaced and an alignment short after. The car is still going too much to the right side after getting the alignment done. What could be the problem?

2 Replies

NOAH956

MEMBER
24 POSTS

The wheel also shakes at low speed.

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Friday, April 12th, 2019 AT 5:33 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,645 POSTS

Welcome to 2CarPros.

If it is pulling to the right after the work you had done, I need you to safely lift the right front wheel off the ground and see if the wheel spins easily. Also, have a helper apply the brakes and release them to confirm the brake is working properly. If it is, do the same with the left side.

Here is why: Since you hit that hard, you may have damaged a wheel bearing or something related to the brakes. If the left front brake isn't working, it will pull to the right when you apply brakes. If the right side is stuck on, you may feel a slight pull to the right and a vibration from an overheating brake rotor. Here is a link that discusses a pull due to brake issues. Take a look through it. In addition to a brake issue, the link discusses steering and suspension concerns. Any of those things may have been damaged in the accident.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-pulls-right-or-left-when-driving-or-braking

I hate to assume, but when the alignment and rack were done, the control arm and bushings, ball joints, tie rods, and all steering components should have been inspected. Confirm that was done.

Let me know if you have questions or need help. Also, let me know what you find.

Take care,
Joe