How important is an idler arm?

How important is an idler arm?

WHY ARE IDLER ARMS IMPORTANT? The idler arm assists the Pitman arm by supporting other steering linkage components as it travels in the direction controlled by the steering gear. The bracket side of the idler arm is mounted to the frame side of your vehicle on one end and supports a ball joint on the other.

What happens if a pitman arm breaks?

When the pitman arm completely fails, you will lose all steering in your vehicle. The pitman arm should be replaced before the problem gets to this point. If you have poor steering, your vehicle seems to wander, or you have lost all ability to steer, chances are your pitman arm needs to be replaced.

Can a steering problem be caused by the idler arm?

It is true that because your car’s steering assembly is made up of so many interlinking parts, problems can arise that are entirely independent of your idler arm. However, because the idler arm is such a specific component, it’s helpful if you can diagnose it as the problem on your own and save a mechanic the trouble and cost.

Can a mechanic diagnose a bad idler arm?

However, because the idler arm is such a specific component, it’s helpful if you can diagnose it as the problem on your own and save a mechanic the trouble and cost. Even when you don’t suspect a problem with your idler arm, regular care will keep it working well. For example, idler arms are often installed with grease fittings.

Why do wheels shift back and forth when idler arm is on?

If the wheels do shift back and forth, it’s a sign that you should look into the idler arm. It is true that because your car’s steering assembly is made up of so many interlinking parts, problems can arise that are entirely independent of your idler arm.

What’s the difference between a pitman arm and an idler arm?

While the counterpart to an idler arm, the pitman arm, attaches to the steering gear and transfers the motions of the actual steering wheel to the center link, tie rods, and ultimately the front wheels; the idler arm is a reflection of that.