Cars with the most steering problems

Ranking of the cars we have analysed by the severity and frequency of their documented steering faults. Each fault links to its page: symptoms, cost, how to check it and sources.

Of the 522 cars we have analysed, 186 have documented steering faults. The one with the most accumulated risk is the Fiat Ducato III, because of “oil leak from the high-pressure hydraulic power steering pipe (2023 units)”; it is followed by the Mercedes-Benz Clase V W447 and the Mercedes-Benz Vito W447. For 336 we have found no documented steering faults.

Reviewed on 30 October 2026How we work

Rank 1
Fiat Ducato III
Van and combi · 2 steering faults
6.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringOil leak from the high-pressure hydraulic power steering pipe (2023 units)Yes: Fiat recalled Ducatos built between 20 March and 12 October 2023 (17,818 units worldwide) because the high-pressure power steering pipe can leak oil. That reduces the assistance and the oil can drip onto the exhaust, with a risk of fire.
- High severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringSteering rack with insufficient lubrication: steering getting heavier (2006-2007 units)Yes: in 2007 Ducatos built between July 2006 and June 2007 were recalled because lubricant was missing between the steering rack and pinion, which could make the steering wheel harder to turn and damage the teeth of the rack. The figures are from the British DVSA.
Rank 2
Mercedes-Benz Clase V W447
MPV · 2 steering faults
6.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringCorrosion of the aluminium bolts on the power steering housing with loss of assistanceYes: a 2019 campaign covers V-Class and Vito models from 2013 to 2016 (166,573 vehicles worldwide, 74,634 in Germany) because aluminium bolts in the power steering can corrode and cause a loss of assistance. The workshop replaces them with steel bolts and treats the steering housing with wax.
- High severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringFaulty fixing of the steering wheel height adjustment that can give way in a frontal crash (November 2023 to March 2024)Yes: Safety Gate alert 7/2025 (SR/00601/25) covers V-Class, EQV, Vito and eVito models built between 10 November 2023 and 13 March 2024 because the steering wheel height adjustment may not be properly secured and could give way in a frontal crash, which would worsen the driver's injuries.
Rank 3
Mercedes-Benz Vito W447
Van and combi · 2 steering faults
6.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringCorrosion of the aluminium power steering bolts with loss of assistanceYes: a campaign covering 166,573 Vito and V-Class vehicles from 2013 to 2016 (74,634 in Germany) corrects aluminium power steering bolts that can corrode and cause a loss of assistance. They are replaced with steel bolts and the steering box is treated with wax.
- High severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringDefective steering wheel height adjustment mounting that may give way in a frontal crash (November 2023 to March 2024)Yes: Vito, V-Class, EQV and eVito vehicles built between 10 November 2023 and 13 March 2024 may have a badly secured steering wheel height adjustment, which in a frontal crash might not withstand the impact and worsen the driver's injuries (Safety Gate, alert 7/2025).
Rank 4
Nissan Micra III
Small family car · 2 steering faults
6.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringPoorly tightened steering wheel retaining boltTwo separate campaigns (2003 and 2013) cover Micra III cars in which the bolt that secures the steering wheel to the steering shaft may not be properly tightened, with a risk of the steering wheel becoming loose or coming off.
- High severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringElectric power steering failureElectric power steering is one of the most frequently cited weak points of the Micra III: the assist motor, the torque sensor or the control unit can fail, leaving the steering heavier or causing intermittent loss of assistance.
Rank 5
Nissan NV400
Van and combi · 2 steering faults
6.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringSteering shaft to steering box joint poorly tightened on the Nissan NV400 (2016-2017)Yes: Nissan recalled NV400s built between 12 May 2016 and 6 June 2017 because the joint between the steering shaft and the steering box might not be properly bolted, with a risk of losing steering control. In the United Kingdom the manufacturer advised not driving them until repaired.
- High severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringThe NV400 instrument cluster with PREM3 equipment may not warn of a steering fault (2017)According to the British DVSA, in some PREM3 variant NV400s built between March and November 2017 the warning light did not come on when there was a steering fault, because of an incorrect software configuration of the instrument cluster. It is fixed with a software update.
Rank 6
Opel Movano B
Van and combi · 2 steering faults
6.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringSteering intermediate shaft not tightened properly on the Movano B (2015–2017): risk of losing steering controlYes: Opel recalled Movano B vans built between 2015 and 2017 because the steering intermediate shaft could be insufficiently tightened and come away from the steering rack, causing loss of steering control. In the United Kingdom, the manufacturer advised owners of affected vehicles not to drive them until they had been repaired.
- High severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringThe Movano B's instrument cluster may not warn of a power steering pump failure (2017–2018)According to the British DVSA, on some Movano B vans of model years 2017 and 2018 the instrument cluster did not show a warning if the power steering pump failed, because of an incorrect calibration file. The fix is to load a new calibration file into the cluster.
Rank 7
Renault Master III
Van and combi · 2 steering faults
6.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringSteering column cover not tightened properly: risk of losing steering (2016-2017)A campaign notified in the EU in April 2018 affects Masters built between 12 May 2016 and 26 June 2017: the steering column cover may not be properly tightened and, in the worst case, could cause the vehicle to lose steering.
- High severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringNo warning on the dashboard if the electric power steering pump fails (2017)A campaign notified in the EU in October 2018 affects Master IIIs built between March and November 2017: the instrument cluster parameters do not match and, if the electric power steering pump unit fails, no warning lights up, which could cause an accident.
Rank 8
Volvo XC90 I
Mid-size SUV · 2 steering faults
6.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringOuter ball joint pin breakage that can cause loss of steering controlA German buying guide reports that, according to the KBA, under extreme driving conditions the outer ball joint pin on XC90s from 2003 to 2006 can break and cause the car to lose the ability to steer. It lists this among the model's recalls; we have not found the official notice.
- High severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringPower steering hose badly secured or touching the fan: oil leak and loss of assistanceThe XC90 I had several recalls over the power steering hose. A 2015 European alert (A12/0885/15) covers cars built between September 2008 and October 2009, because of rubbing against the fan. A German guide adds the five-cylinder diesels from 2009-2010 and those from 2010-2011.
Rank 9
Nissan X-Trail II
Compact SUV · 3 steering faults
6.2 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringLoss of steering from the pinion cover bolt (2008-2009 campaigns)In 2008 and 2009 Nissan recalled X-Trail T31s in the UK over the steering rack: a bolt on the pinion cover could work loose, causing noise in the steering and, in the worst case, loss of control.
- Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringPlay in steering and suspension joints (TÜV)CarWiki.de, drawing on TÜV inspections, reports that the X-Trail T31 suffers worn joints with play, for example in the steering, with expensive repairs, along with lighting defects.
- Medium severityFrequency: RareSteeringElectric power steering ECU failure (2011-2012 campaign)A 2011-2012 campaign covers 2,693 X-Trails in the UK built between August 2010 and August 2011: the heat sink of the electric power steering ECU could fail and suddenly cut the assistance.
Rank 10
Opel Corsa D
Small family car · 2 steering faults
6.4 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringRisk of the steering intermediate shaft breakingYes: in 2014 Opel recalled around 8,000 Corsa D and Adam cars built from May 2014 because the steering intermediate shaft could break and cause a total loss of control of the steering wheel; the brand itself asked owners not to drive the car until it had been checked.
- Critical severityFrequency: RareSteeringManufacturing deviation in the steering rack teethIn 2015 Opel recalled Corsa D and Adam cars from the 2015-2016 production years because a manufacturing deviation in the steering rack teeth could cause it to break, with a risk of a road accident.
Rank 11
BMW Serie 3 E90
Saloon · 1 steering fault
6.8 out of 10steering score
- High severityFrequency: CommonSteeringSteering rack and power steering pump failureIt is one of the faults owners cite most: fiches-auto.fr describes failures of the steering rack (sometimes locked) and of the power steering pump, mainly on the 318i and 320d, with steering columns replaced for €800-1,200 or a reprogramming for around €200-250 in France.
Rank 12
Volvo S80 II
Saloon · 2 steering faults
6.8 out of 10steering score
- High severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringWater ingress into the Volvo S80's electro-hydraulic power steering pumpIn 2011 Volvo recalled (R/2011/053 in the UK) a batch of V70 and S80 cars because water could get into the electro-hydraulic power steering pump and affect its operation: warnings may appear and, in extreme cases, the engine could stall or the assistance fail. The remedy is to replace the pump.
- High severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringVolvo S80 upper power steering return hose: it can come loose and leak fluidIn 2011 Volvo recalled (R/2011/094 in the UK) a batch of S80, V70, V60 and S60 cars because the upper power steering return hose could come loose and leak fluid onto the road and into the engine bay, with heavier steering. The remedy is to replace the hose.
Rank 13
Volvo V70 III
Saloon · 2 steering faults
6.8 out of 10steering score
- High severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringWater ingress into the Volvo V70's electro-hydraulic power steering pumpIn 2011 Volvo recalled (R/2011/053 in the UK) a batch of V70 and S80 cars because water could get into the electro-hydraulic power steering pump and affect its operation: warnings may appear and, in extreme cases, the engine could stall or the assistance fail. The remedy is to replace the pump.
- High severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringVolvo V70 upper power steering return hose: it can come loose and leak fluidIn 2011 Volvo recalled (R/2011/094 in the UK) a batch of S80, V70, V60 and S60 cars because the upper power steering return hose could come loose and leak fluid onto the road and into the engine bay, with heavier steering. The remedy is to replace the hose.
Rank 14
Citroën C3 III
Small family car · 3 steering faults
7.0 out of 10steering score
- High severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringIncorrect steering geometry calibration (2019-2020 production)Yes: a May 2020 campaign (ref. r2020165) covers vehicles built between 12 September 2019 and 18 March 2020 because of an incorrect calibration of the steering geometry.
- Critical severityFrequency: RareSteeringIncorrectly fitted steering column clamp (July 2018 production)Yes: a January 2019 campaign (ref. r2019009) covers vehicles built between 4 and 12 July 2018 because of an incorrectly fitted clamp on the universal joint of the steering column, with a risk to steering control. Peugeot registered an equivalent campaign (r2019010) for the 208 with the same build dates.
- Medium severityFrequency: RareSteeringSteering column bearing out of specification (January 2018 production)A July 2018 campaign (ref. r2018197) covers vehicles built between 11 and 22 January 2018 because of a steering column bearing that did not meet the factory specification.
Rank 15
Peugeot 208 II
Small family car · 1 steering fault
7.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: Very frequentSteeringPoorly tightened steering track rods with risk of loss of control (2020-2021 production)Peugeot recalled the 208 IIs built between December 2020 and April 2021 in February 2023 because the nuts on the steering track rods might not be properly tightened, with a risk of losing control of the car.
Rank 16
Seat Ateca
Compact SUV · 1 steering fault
7.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: Very frequentSteeringCorrosion of the bolt that secures the steering rackYes: in September 2026 Volkswagen, Audi and Seat recalled cars built between 2016 and 2024, including the Ateca, because a bolt that secures the steering rack to the front axle can break through corrosion and leave the car without steering control. The repair is free at the official network.Repair: €0
Rank 17
Volkswagen Golf VII
Compact · 1 steering fault
7.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: Very frequentSteeringCorrosion of the steering rack boltYes: in September 2026 Volkswagen recalled Golfs built between 24 September 2013 and 1 July 2024 because a bolt joining the steering rack can corrode from road salt and compromise control of the car. The inspection and part replacement are free.Repair: €0
Rank 18
Volkswagen Tiguan II
Compact SUV · 1 steering fault
7.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: Very frequentSteeringCorrosion of the bolt that secures the steering rackYes: in September 2026 Volkswagen, Audi and Seat recalled cars built between 2013 and 2024, including the Tiguan, because a bolt that secures the steering rack to the front axle can break through corrosion and leave the car without steering control. The repair is free through the official network.Repair: €0
Rank 19
Opel Meriva A
MPV · 1 steering fault
7.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: CommonSteeringPower steering faults and recall for the steering rack pinion (2007 units)Yes: fiches-auto.fr describes the power steering as 'a known problem of the brand' on the Meriva A, with pump failures and loss of assistance. In addition, the KBA recalled 748 units built in 2007 because the steering rack pinion might not be properly secured, with a risk of losing the ability to steer the car.
Rank 20
Audi Q3 I
Compact SUV · 1 steering fault
7.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringCorrosion of the steering rack bolt (2026 campaign)Yes, in part: the 2026 Volkswagen and Audi campaign for steering bolt corrosion covers Audi Q3 models built between 31 October 2017 and May 2024. As the Q3 I stopped being built in June 2018, only its last cars fall within the campaign; most of the affected Q3s are already second-generation.Repair: €0
Rank 21
Audi Q3 II
Compact SUV · 1 steering fault
7.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringCorrosion of the bolt that secures the steering rack (2026 campaign)Yes: since September 2026, Volkswagen, Audi and Seat have been recalling 2.8 million cars over a steering bolt that can corrode and break. It affects around 696,547 Audi Q3s built between the end of October 2017 and May 2024, which means practically the entire Q3 II production up to that date. The replacement is free at official dealers.Repair: €0
Rank 22
Audi Q7 4M
Mid-size SUV · 1 steering fault
7.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringBolt joining the steering shaft to the rack tightened to insufficient torqueAudi recalled some Q7s built between 2015 and February 2019 because the bolt joining the steering shaft to the rack may have been tightened to insufficient torque and could work loose over time, which can affect steering control.
Rank 23
Audi Q8
Mid-size SUV · 1 steering fault
7.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringBolt joining the steering shaft to the rack tightened to insufficient torqueAudi recalled some Q8s built up to February 2019 because the bolt joining the steering shaft to the rack may have been tightened to insufficient torque and could work loose over time, which can affect steering control.
Rank 24
BMW Serie 1 E87
Compact · 1 steering fault
7.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringElectric power steering (EPS) control unit failure with loss of assistanceBMW recalled 1 Series E87 units with electric power steering (EPS): a fault in the control electronics can cause a sudden loss of steering assistance, according to a campaign by the German KBA reported by gebrauchtwagenberater.de.
Rank 25
Citroën C1 II
City car · 1 steering fault
7.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringRecall for steering column breakage (2014 production)According to Gebrauchtwagenberater, a recall covered C1s built in September and October 2014: the steering column could break and, in the worst case, cause loss of steering. The part is replaced at the workshop.
Rank 26
Citroën C3 Aircross I
Small SUV · 1 steering fault
7.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringManufacturing defect in the steering column (built June-July 2019)Citroën recalled C3 Aircross I cars built in June and July 2019 because a manufacturing defect in the steering column can cause abnormal operation and, in the worst case, a loss of control of the vehicle.
Rank 27
Dacia Dokker
Van and combi · 1 steering fault
7.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringRecall for possible steering track rod breakageDokkers built between 17/09 and 04/12/2015 were recalled (Safety Gate alert A12/0026/16) because the rack track rod could break due to a manufacturing defect and leave the car without steering.
Rank 28
Fiat Doblò I
Van and combi · 1 steering fault
7.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringMissing weld on the steering column shaft: possible loss of steeringIn 2006 a recall was issued in the United Kingdom (DVSA R/2006/138) for Doblòs, MPV and van, built in March and April 2006: the weld on the steering shaft at the lower universal joint could be missing, with possible loss of steering. It appears in the British register and we have not been able to confirm its scope in Spain.
Rank 29
Fiat Grande Panda
City car · 1 steering fault
7.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringElectric power steering wiring harness pinched between two bolts (2026 recall F60B)Yes: recall F60B (Safety Gate alert SR/00906/26, March 2026) covers Grande Pandas built between 14 August 2024 and 14 April 2025. The electric power steering harness runs between two bolts and vibration can damage it, with a risk of short circuit, loss of assistance and/or a fire in the passenger compartment.
Rank 30
Ford Ranger
Mid-size SUV · 1 steering fault
7.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringSteering column that can separate from the intermediate shaft because of a loose boltCampaign 22S64 covers 1,215 Rangers built between 12 January and 17 September 2021: a loose bolt can allow the steering column to separate from the intermediate shaft, with loss of steering and a risk of accident.
Rank 31
Honda Civic VIII
Compact · 1 steering fault
7.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringRecall for electric power steering control unit faultYes: Honda recalled a series of Civics built between August 2005 and January 2006 because the electric power steering control unit could fail and cause a sudden loss of steering assistance.
Rank 32
Honda Civic XI
Compact · 1 steering fault
7.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringElectric power steering (EPS) gearbox short of grease: noises and stiff steeringYes: in 2025 Honda recalled (campaign 6JP) Civics built between August 2021 and August 2024, along with the ZR-V and CR-V, because the electric power steering gearbox can run short of enough grease and produce noise and uneven steering torque. It is repaired by replacing an internal spring and refilling the grease, or by replacing the whole gearbox if needed.
Rank 33
Honda CR-V V
Compact SUV · 1 steering fault
7.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringElectric power steering (EPS) failure from grease loss in the gear reducerYes, in the CR-V hybrids (e:HEV) and plug-in hybrids (e:PHEV) built in 2023 and 2024: with use, the grease in the electric power steering reducer diminishes, the steering torque becomes irregular, and noise or a dangerous seizing when turning may occur. Honda corrects it with a new spring and grease.
Rank 34
Hyundai i30 I
Compact · 1 steering fault
7.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringSteering column bolts that loosen (recall)According to Gebrauchtwagenberater.de, there was a recall for the i30 FD (built from April 2007 to March 2008 and from September 2010 to May 2012) because a steering column bolt could loosen and, in the worst case, leave the car without steering. Two bolts on the universal joint were retightened.
Rank 35
Kia Soul II
Small SUV · 1 steering fault
7.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringLoose joint between the steering column and the steering box: three recallsSafety Gate recorded three notices about the steering of the Soul built between July 2013 and September 2015 (in 2014, 2016 and 2018). They describe a loose joint between the column or the rod and the steering box, and a steering box fault that could leave the driver unable to steer the car.
Rank 36
Lancia Ypsilon III
City car · 1 steering fault
7.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringSteering rack rod locknut not tightened enough (March 2022 cars)Yes, there was a recall: 174 Ypsilon cars built between 21 and 30 March 2022 may have left the factory with the steering rack rod locknut not tightened properly, with a risk of losing control of the car. It is a very limited campaign: confirm your chassis number at an authorised dealer.
Rank 37
Mercedes-Benz CLA C117
Saloon · 1 steering fault
7.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringRecall for a badly sized steering shaft universal jointYes: an incorrectly sized hole in the steering shaft universal joint can leave play and, over time, let the joint come loose; the campaign covers CLAs built between November 2016 and July 2017.
Rank 38
Mercedes-Benz Clase A W176
Compact · 1 steering fault
7.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringIncorrectly drilled hole in the steering jointMercedes-Benz recalled a batch of A-Class W176 cars built between November 2016 and July 2017 because a drilled hole in the steering shaft joint had incorrect dimensions, with a risk of the joint separating.
Rank 39
Mercedes-Benz Clase B W246
MPV · 1 steering fault
7.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringIncorrect drilled hole in the steering jointMercedes-Benz recalled a batch of B-Class cars built between 30 November 2016 and 14 July 2017 because a drilled hole in the steering universal joint had incorrect specifications, with a risk that steering function may be affected.
Rank 40
Mercedes-Benz Clase C W204
Saloon · 1 steering fault
7.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringCorrosion of the aluminium steering box boltsIn 2024 Mercedes-Benz recalled C-Class cars built between late 2010 and 2016 because the three aluminium bolts that secure the steering box can loosen or break through the ingress of water and sand, weakening the steering.
Rank 41
Mercedes-Benz Clase C W206
Saloon · 1 steering fault
7.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringSteering coupling failure with a risk of loss of controlYes: Mercedes-Benz registered a campaign for the C-Class W206 because the steering column coupling can fail, which can lead to loss of control of the vehicle.
Rank 42
Mercedes-Benz Clase E W212
Saloon · 1 steering fault
7.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringCorrosion of the aluminium steering gear boltsIn 2024 Mercedes-Benz recalled E-Class cars built between late 2010 and late 2016 - practically the whole production life of the W212 - because the three aluminium bolts on the steering gear can loosen or break through the ingress of water and sand, weakening the steering.
Rank 43
Mercedes-Benz EQC N293
Mid-size SUV · 1 steering fault
7.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringElectric power steering wiring harness damaged during assembly: risk of losing assistanceYes: two Mercedes recalls flagged in the Safety Gate (6/2021 and 48/2021) affect EQCs built between 2019 and 2020, because the electric steering wiring may have been damaged at the factory. If water reaches the control unit, the assistance can disappear suddenly, even while driving. The check is carried out at the official service centre.
Rank 44
Mercedes-Benz GL / GLS X166
Mid-size SUV · 1 steering fault
7.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringBreakage or corrosion of the aluminium steering gear boltsMercedes has recalled the GL and GLS X166 twice over the aluminium bolts of the steering gear: in 2023 for possible breakage and in 2024 for corrosion caused by water and salt. If a bolt gives way, steering assistance may be lost.
Rank 45
Mercedes-Benz GL X164
Mid-size SUV · 1 steering fault
7.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringBreakage or corrosion of the aluminium steering box boltsMercedes has recalled the GL twice over the aluminium steering box bolts: in 2023 for possible breakage and in 2024 for corrosion caused by water and salt. If a bolt gives way, steering assistance can be lost.
Rank 46
Mercedes-Benz GLC X253
Mid-size SUV · 1 steering fault
7.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringSteering rack mounting working loose (models up to 2017)On GLC X253 models built up to 2017, the steering rack mounting can work loose, with a risk of losing power assistance; an additional testimony confirms a faulty rack on a GLC 250d.
Rank 47
Mercedes-Benz GLC X254
Mid-size SUV · 1 steering fault
7.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringSteering coupling fault with risk of losing steeringYes: Safety Gate alert SR/03352/25 (Mercedes code 4691007) covers 17,606 vehicles worldwide (C-Class, EQE and GLC built from 2 March 2022 to 23 July 2025) for a manufacturing defect in the coupling between the steering wheel and the steering box, which can work loose and cause a loss of steering.
Rank 48
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 907
Van and combi · 1 steering fault
7.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringHydraulic power steering assistance failureAlert A12/00755/21 (RAPEX 22/2021) warns that the hydraulic steering assistance may be faulty and could fail, increasing the risk of an accident. It covers Sprinters built between January 2017 and March 2021.
Rank 49
Nissan NV200
Van and combi · 1 steering fault
7.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringDefective steering wheel attachment to the steering column on the 2012 Nissan NV200Yes: Nissan recalled 2012 NV200s because the steering wheel attachment (the connecting part, according to the DVSA; the screws, according to Safety Gate) may not have the correct strength, and the wheel could come off the column under high force, with loss of steering control. It is inspected and, where necessary, the steering wheel assembly is replaced.
Rank 50
Nissan Primastar
Van and combi · 1 steering fault
7.1 out of 10steering score
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSteeringCracks in the metal structure of the steering wheelYes: Primastars built between September 2012 and December 2013 may have cracks in the metal structure of the steering wheel due to a production error; in the worst case it could break and come away from the column. This is Safety Gate alert A12/1226/16 (2016), notified by Spain. It is inspected and the steering wheel replaced if necessary.
Rank 51Opel Astra H · 1 steering fault7.1 out of 10
Rank 52Opel Frontera · 1 steering fault7.1 out of 10
Rank 53Peugeot 2008 I · 1 steering fault7.1 out of 10
Rank 54Peugeot 207 · 1 steering fault7.1 out of 10
Rank 55Seat Tarraco · 1 steering fault7.1 out of 10
Rank 56Škoda Kodiaq I · 1 steering fault7.1 out of 10
Rank 57Suzuki SX4 · 1 steering fault7.1 out of 10
Rank 58Toyota ProAce II · 1 steering fault7.1 out of 10
Rank 59Toyota Urban Cruiser · 1 steering fault7.1 out of 10
Rank 60Volkswagen Amarok I · 1 steering fault7.1 out of 10
Rank 61Volkswagen Caddy III · 1 steering fault7.1 out of 10
Rank 62Volkswagen Caddy V · 1 steering fault7.1 out of 10
Rank 63Volkswagen T-Roc · 1 steering fault7.1 out of 10
Rank 64Volkswagen Touareg II · 1 steering fault7.1 out of 10
Rank 65Volkswagen Touareg III · 1 steering fault7.1 out of 10
Rank 66Volkswagen Touran II · 1 steering fault7.1 out of 10
Rank 67BMW X3 F25 · 2 steering faults7.1 out of 10
Rank 68Mercedes-Benz Clase C W205 · 2 steering faults7.3 out of 10
Rank 69Peugeot Rifter · 2 steering faults7.3 out of 10
Rank 70BMW Serie 1 F20 · 1 steering fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 71Abarth 500 · 1 steering fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 72Alfa Romeo 166 · 1 steering fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 73Alfa Romeo MiTo · 1 steering fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 74Audi A4 B5 · 1 steering fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 75BMW Serie 3 F30 · 1 steering fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 76BMW X5 F15 · 1 steering fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 77Citroën C3 Aircross II · 1 steering fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 78Citroën C3 IV · 1 steering fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 79Citroën C3 Picasso · 1 steering fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 80Dacia Duster II · 1 steering fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 81Dacia Lodgy · 1 steering fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 82Dacia Sandero II · 1 steering fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 83Hyundai i20 I · 1 steering fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 84Infiniti Q50 · 1 steering fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 85Jaguar XF I · 1 steering fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 86Kia Ceed II · 1 steering fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 87Kia Sportage IV · 1 steering fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 88Mazda CX-60 · 1 steering fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 89Mercedes-Benz Clase M W163 · 1 steering fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 90Opel Astra G · 1 steering fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 91Opel Combo D · 1 steering fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 92Opel Combo E · 1 steering fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 93Peugeot 2008 II · 1 steering fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 94Renault Laguna III · 1 steering fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 95Renault Modus · 1 steering fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 96Toyota Aygo I · 1 steering fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 97Toyota Verso-S · 1 steering fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 98Volkswagen ID. Buzz · 1 steering fault7.9 out of 10
Rank 99Fiat Panda II · 2 steering faults7.9 out of 10
Rank 100Suzuki Swift IV · 2 steering faults7.9 out of 10
Rank 101Kia Picanto II · 2 steering faults8.0 out of 10
Rank 102Mitsubishi Colt VI · 2 steering faults8.0 out of 10
Rank 103BMW X1 E84 · 2 steering faults8.4 out of 10
Rank 104Audi A3 III · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 105Audi A4 B7 · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 106BMW Serie 6 E63/E64 · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 107BMW X1 F48 · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 108BMW X2 F39 · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 109BMW X5 E70 · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 110Citroën Berlingo I · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 111Citroën C3 I · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 112Dacia Logan I · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 113Fiat 500 · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 114Fiat Panda III · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 115Fiat Punto III · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 116Fiat Stilo · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 117Ford C-Max I · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 118Ford Fiesta VII · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 119Ford Focus II · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 120Ford Mondeo III · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 121Ford Mondeo IV · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 122Hyundai Tucson IV · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 123Jeep Avenger · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 124Jeep Wrangler JL · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 125Kia Rio III · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 126Kia Sportage V · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 127Mazda CX-3 · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 128Mazda CX-7 · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 129Mercedes-Benz Clase S W222 · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 130Mercedes-Benz CLK C208 · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 131MINI Cooper F56 · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 132MINI Cooper R56 · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 133MINI Countryman F60 · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 134Nissan Note I · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 135Nissan Qashqai I · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 136Opel Corsa E · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 137Opel Insignia A · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 138Opel Meriva B · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 139Opel Mokka B · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 140Opel Zafira A · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 141Opel Zafira Tourer C · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 142Peugeot 108 · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 143Peugeot 208 I · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 144Peugeot 308 I · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 145Peugeot 308 II · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 146Peugeot Partner I · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 147Renault Clio II · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 148Renault Kangoo II · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 149Renault Laguna II · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 150Renault Mégane II · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 151Renault Twingo III · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 152Škoda Fabia I · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 153Suzuki S-Cross I · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 154Toyota Auris I · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 155Toyota GR Supra A90 · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 156Toyota Yaris II · 1 steering fault8.6 out of 10
Rank 157Toyota Verso · 2 steering faults8.6 out of 10
Rank 158Alfa Romeo Tonale · 1 steering fault8.9 out of 10
Rank 159Audi Q5 I · 1 steering fault8.9 out of 10
Rank 160BMW Serie 5 G30 · 1 steering fault8.9 out of 10
Rank 161Citroën Berlingo III · 1 steering fault8.9 out of 10
Rank 162Fiat 500L · 1 steering fault8.9 out of 10
Rank 163Ford Fiesta VIII · 1 steering fault8.9 out of 10
Rank 164Iveco Daily VI · 1 steering fault8.9 out of 10
Rank 165Mercedes-Benz Clase E W213 · 1 steering fault8.9 out of 10
Rank 166Mercedes-Benz GLA X156 · 1 steering fault8.9 out of 10
Rank 167MG ZS I · 1 steering fault8.9 out of 10
Rank 168MINI Cooper F55 · 1 steering fault8.9 out of 10
Rank 169Opel Mokka A · 1 steering fault8.9 out of 10
Rank 170Seat Ibiza IV · 1 steering fault8.9 out of 10
Rank 171Škoda Rapid · 1 steering fault8.9 out of 10
Rank 172Suzuki Grand Vitara II · 1 steering fault8.9 out of 10
Rank 173Toyota RAV4 III · 1 steering fault8.9 out of 10
Rank 174Toyota Yaris III · 1 steering fault8.9 out of 10
Rank 175Toyota Yaris IV · 1 steering fault8.9 out of 10
Rank 176Audi A4 B8 · 1 steering fault9.3 out of 10
Rank 177Dacia Duster I · 1 steering fault9.3 out of 10
Rank 178Ford S-Max I · 1 steering fault9.3 out of 10
Rank 179Honda CR-V III · 1 steering fault9.3 out of 10
Rank 180Mazda 3 I · 1 steering fault9.3 out of 10
Rank 181Renault Clio III · 1 steering fault9.3 out of 10
Rank 182Renault Espace V · 1 steering fault9.3 out of 10
Rank 183Škoda Fabia IV · 1 steering fault9.3 out of 10
Rank 184Volkswagen up! · 1 steering fault9.3 out of 10
Rank 185BMW Serie 5 F10 · 1 steering fault9.6 out of 10
Rank 186Hyundai i40 · 1 steering fault9.6 out of 10

No documented steering faults

We have found no reliable sources reporting steering faults on these cars. That does not mean they never fail: maintenance and use count as much as design.