When I accelerate through a turn, why is there a wiggling/vibration in my steering and suspension?

Question

I have a 2003 Ford Focus ZX5 that I just bought a few months ago, and I notice when I accelerate through a turn, the steering wheel jiggles and the whole car gently shakes. But when I'm taking a turn and not using the gas, it's smooth and normal. I also notice when braking hard from high speeds the steering wheel does the same jiggly thing, not to the point of losing control, but enough to get your attention. What's wrong with my car?

Answer 1

That is called "torque steer" when you accelerate my friend. Your front tires are slipping and chopping, when you give it gas, while making the turn. That is why REAL race cars are rear wheel drive.



The jiggly thing when you are on the brakes is from the warping of the rotor, you need to go have them trued, and replace the pads.

Answer 2

your feeling some of the torque of the car through the steering wheel it shouldn't be to bad though all front wheel cars do this ,some are more noticeable than others are,you could also have a cv joint starting to go bad if its doing it bad enough to really notice,you can check the cv joints to see,they may be getting worn some,good luck with it.

Answer 3

Also check the power steering fluid - it might be low and this will cause your power steering to 'jiggle' during sharp turns.



My '02 Ford Escape XLT does this and no 'warning light' comes on in the instrument panel to tell you.

Answer 4

You have front end problems that need to be seen by a qualified mechanic before you end up upside down in a ditch.