I just had new steering components put in. I believe it was the rack and pinion but unsure of any other components/parts and don't have access to my receipt right now. I've noticed what I feel like as a result that the steering doesn't return to center nearly as well after a turn. It will still move it's way back it's just very slow. The best way I can describe it is that after a turn you have to physically turn the wheel the opposite direction, as opposed to not holding pressure in the direction of the turn, in order to not overturn out of the lane you would be turning into. I don't mean changing lanes on the highway but making a left or right turn. I asked the shop that performed the service (normal one I go to and I do trust them) and they had a different mechanic take it for a ride with me and he said he thought if felt normal. I just feel like its not crisp at all and really returning to center is terrible compared to before. Could it be new parts just have a new feel or is there something that I could ask to be inspected as well?

 

@MaverikDS please post a clear photo of your service invoice showing the list of parts replaced and the work that was done.

It could be that new ball joints and tie rods have higher friction, creating what you are experiencing. This can be normal within certain limits, and will resolve itself over time. Extra high friction is a characteristic of low cost aftermarket components. Dealer or independent rapid shop?

Also it could be that the alignment is off.

Your service invoice will shed some light on this.

 

I will post it once I'm back in town with access in a few days. It was done at an independent shop with all MB parts. It also did have alignment done after new parts were installed. Either way, I'll post once I get the invoice.

 

Check wheel alignment. From experience, dealer is the best source for alignment, especially if the car has Airmatic.
Another reason can be the pre-load adjustment is set too high for the steering rack, where it prevents the rack from centering itself back.

 

At the end of the steering column there is a universal knuckle fitting that can seize up making the steering very hard. Its intermittent and usually only on part of the turn, but we'll worthwhile to look at if you think its all too tight post the new rack. It might be why you're not getting the centering of the wheel that you should.