Steering/suspension issues

1991 HONDA ACCORD

250,538 MILES • 1.8L • 4 CYL • 2WD • MANUAL

ROBBIE SCHAFER FUCHS

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19 POSTS
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When driving down the road and hit any small object like a rock of twig whatever the car jumps one direction or another some wobbling at all speeds, when taking wider turns it feels like too far to one side almost like the frame of the car or something leans too far over the tire like the tire is kneeling is the way i can think to describe it. Also, a random clunk or rattle under the passenger side front end when going over smallish bumps....

Sep 30, 2021 at 4:13 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

CERTIFIED EXPERT
110,175 POSTS

Hi,

The first thing I recommend is to check both the tie rods and the ball joints. Either could be causing this issue.

Here is what to do. Safely lift one front wheel from the ground. Place your hands at 3 and 9 o'clock and wiggle the wheel back and forth. Check for play in the tie rods shown in pic 1. Note, I highlighted the outer tie rod. There is an inner one as well that attaches to the rack and pinion under the rubber boot. See if the play is coming from there as well.

Next, place your hands at 6 and 12 o'clock. See if there is play in the ball joints. There is both an upper and lower ball joint. In pic 2, I highlighted their locations.

Next, inspect the coil spring which is part of the strut assembly. Make sure it isn't cracked. See pic 3.

Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.

Images (Click to enlarge)

Sep 30, 2021 at 8:14 PM