MB Minister

Hello! My step son bought a 98 ml320. Steering is very loose- sways a lot while driving- a lot of slop with the wheel. Going over bumps is a bit scary- as it throws th steering way off, and there is a momentary loss of control. I had it in the air yesterday, and checked all 4 corners- ball joints and control arms seem snug, tie rod ends- although they will be changed by the end of the year, are as well sung. I could however grab a tire and turn it slightly left and right. The steering rack underneath moved about 1/8 inch when he was at the wheel and turning, with one corner still on the ground. Im lost at this point as to what to check next. Any help or insight which anyone can throw my way?

leighjor

Have similar problem . I bought ML320 about a week ago. Any slight movement of steering wheel and the back end seems to sway out. Local mechanics had it on hoist for half an hour could find nothing wrong.
Did you have any luck in finding cause.?

art_arev

UPDATE YOUR PROFILE!!!
WHICH YEAR ML320????
Firstly do a proper wheel allignment. If the car is out of allignment you will get the symptoms you are describing.
Secondly you need to check the suspension: Tie rod ends ( outer & inner) & ball joints. If they are finished you will need to replace them & do another allignment.