Hey! I have a 99' ML320, it has had an accident, the car was hit at the front left quarter.

After I got it all fixed, I'm noticing some weird steering rack operation. The problem is the most apparent when the steering wheel is at its lowest position. It is very hard to turn the steering wheel and it looks as if at some intervals even more power has to be applied to turn the steering wheel. Sort of power steering pump working in pulses.. That really scares me, because I'm not sure how hard I have to turn the steering wheel as it first turns harder, then easier.

What should I first look into? Universal joints or steering rack itself?

Thanks in advance!