A failing steering column typically will give you plenty of time to inspect and replace the part before it causes any serious problems. In the following paragraphs below, we outline for you the signs of failure.Steering Column is covered in more detail at https://westernpowersteering.co.uk/steering-parts/column/.
Excessive Looseness in the Column
There is typically a small amount of free play, or slack, in the steering column of a vehicle. However, if the free play is increased so that there is more than a couple of centimeters of slack in the wheel rim, then it is likely that the steering column itself is worn and cannot be adjusted.
Grinding or Clunking When You Turn
While steering column universal joints can be serviced in isolation, most steering column designs are not capable of being serviced as the column is typically an integrated unit and therefore the entire column needs to be replaced when a joint develops a problem such as excessive noise even after lubrication.
Tilt or Telescoping Problems
When the column drops unexpectedly, gets stuck in the intermediate position, or will not lock, it has a failed locking mechanism. This is a safety item and it cannot be repaired.
Dashboard Warning Lights
An EPS warning light or torque sensor fault code indicating a problem with the column sensor will indicate an internal failure to the steering column, rather than a problem with wiring elsewhere in the vehicle.
Stiffness Through One Arc of Movement
If you notice that your steering binds or becomes stiff in one spot of the turn then that would mean that there is a deformation in the column shaft or in the bearings of the column. This kind of problem will not be solved by adding fluids to the system or by making adjustments to get the wheels properly aligned.
If you note more than one of these signs for your steering column then it is almost certainly the time for a steering column change.