2001 Mitsubishi Lancer Steering

DEANO786

MEMBER
2001 MITSUBISHI LANCER
4 CYL
FWD
MANUAL
220,000 MILES

Had an accident the other day, car was pretty damaged and now the steering is stuffed in one way or another. I went off a ledge ran over some small trees, small and large rocks. When I turn my steering wheel and tires dont actually turn? Was wonder what may be the cause for this? And my rear wheels are bent inwards, like the axle is bent or something? Im not sure tho

1 Reply

CARADIODOC

MECHANIC
33,738 POSTS

What does "now the steering is stuffed in one way or another" mean? You're asking me to do over a computer what the people at tire and alignment shops do, except they can actually see the car.

"When I turn my steering wheel and tires dont actually turn?"

If the wheels don't respond, something is broken in the steering gear or a tie rod end. Either way you'll need a tow truck to get it to the repair shop. For the rear wheels, are they turned in on top, bottom, front, or rear? The wheels could be bent. I'm not sure what type of rear suspension system your car has, but if it's a full axle, it likely is bent in the middle. If you have individual upper and lower control arms, those bend much easier but they're also easier to replace. The alignment specialist will inspect the steering and suspension systems and tell you what is needed. If bodywork is needed too, start with the body shop. They may replace bent parts too or they may take the car to the alignment shop for you. Either way they will take it to the alignment shop when they're done with everything else to have the alignment done.