What symptoms may suggest a faulty steering gear?

A faulty steering gear can present a variety of symptoms, with difficulty steering or a knocking noise when turning being particularly indicative of a problem. A steering gear mechanism that is worn, damaged, or otherwise compromised can lead to a lack of responsiveness or smoothness in steering input, making it hard to turn the wheel with appropriate ease. Additionally, a knocking noise when turning can signal that internal components of the steering gear, such as gear teeth or bushings, have become damaged or misaligned.

This condition can also lead to abnormal wear on other steering and suspension components. It's crucial to address such issues promptly, as they not only impact vehicle handling but also pose potential safety hazards.

Other symptoms tied to different components—like excessive noise from the brakes, vibration in the tires, and difficulty accelerating—point to distinctly different problems that are not directly related to the steering gear's integrity or function.