RealVanCity

Hi all,

I've got a 2012 E350 4matic with about 60,000kms on it. Just noticed recently that the steering is about 2 min out off center to the right. Also, when I'm making right turns, it seems much easier to turn right than to the left. It's assisting more power on the right.

Could this be a alignment issue? or steering rack? Any advice where to start?


Much appreciated,

Mud

Check alignment and at the same time do a close visual inspection of front end suspension and steering components.
Caster setting can impact left/right steering effort and return, but the steering wheel being off center points to possibility something got wacked under there.

bobtuba

Two minutes off centre? As in 1/30th of one degree? How can you even tell?

RealVanCity

When I put the wheel level and straight (both paddles level), it starts to veer left slowly while driving. In order to drive straight, i need to have the wheel slightly turned to the right.

belarus27

Sounds like alignment issue or a worn out tire

Mud

That's a bit different than your first description. As mentioned before, get the alignment checked.

RealVanCity

Oh ok, cool. Thank you! , I'm gonna get her into the shop and find out what's going on. It's really bugging me lol

Mud

Sounds good, please post how it works out. I know having that constant slight pull is pretty annoying. Plus wears tires!

RealVanCity

Yup, I totally agree. Will do!, gonna take her in next week and find out what's going on.

RealVanCity

So just to update everyone, brought it in to the MB dealer here for an alignment (they had a special on $199 CAD). It's all been corrected to the acceptable German specs. No signs of any other damage or wear to components. There were a handful of settings that needed to be corrected both front and rear axle (including the caster).

The steering feels centered now, and after a right turn it does return quicker. Was just a short drive back from the dealer, but everything seems good. The assist feels both equal now also when turning the steering left and right.

Will keep you posted if anything changes.

I'm much happier now as I like to keep my MB in absolutely tip top shape


Thank you again for your input! Much appreciated.

belarus27

What speed would it shake/vibrate ?

RealVanCity

There was no shaking or vibrating really. I think maybe past 100km/hr I felt a very small vibration in the wheel prior, however that could have been a front wheel just maybe an ounce off balance.

I was thinking about having my indy shop do it (he was busy and has only 3 bays), and this time around I figured just put it in the hands of the MB dealer for accuracy. Planning on learning a lot more about this beautiful car and maybe doing a few things on my own to save some $ in the future.