1987 Subaru Justy Steering Wheel Play

SUBARU
Avatar
RIVVY121060
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
My sons 1987 Justy Turbo not sure of exact mileage for the engine has been changed but I'm guessing 160,000? He started having steering problems with what felt like the tire was about to fall off, he would have to hold tight of the steering wheel. He had it inspected but nothing was found wrong! Two weeks later the problems got worse and made a loud noise and then would hardly move. When he tries to drive the passenger tire doesn't move but you can see the center bearing or? the center of the wheel is turning. You can however put it in 4WD and the car will go. Is this a cvc joint or bearing or ? I am so thankful of all the help you guys give :wink: . thanks, rivvy
Feb 17, 2007 at 4:17 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
2CARPRO JACK
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 11,533 POSTS
Need to raise and support the car on stands so that he can check for play in the wheel bearing. If it felt like the wheel was gonna fall of it could very well be the bearing.Hard to check them with the weight of the car on it.
Feb 17, 2007 at 11:42 PM

Suggested Repair

Raise and support the car on jack stands, then check the passenger-side wheel bearing for play. A wheel that feels like it could fall off is consistent with a failing bearing, which is hard to diagnose with the vehicle's weight on the wheel.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 1987 Subaru Justy reports steering that felt like a tire was about to fall off, followed by a loud noise and little movement. The passenger tire does not turn while the wheel center still rotates, though the car moves in 4WD. An expert advises supporting the car on stands and checking the wheel bearing for play.

Add a reply
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.

Frequently Asked Problems for This Vehicle