Steering Wheel Changes Position

[MikelB]

I have a 1999 QX4 and have an issue with the steering wheel. If the car is running and sitting and you activate the steering with out moving, position the wheel back to center and drive off the wheel is off center. This only happens when the vehicle is static and turning the wheel in any direction results in a different position when you drive off.

The steering coupling inside the engine bay seems tight.

Anybody else encounter this?

[AlanAZ]

Have the steering rack rubber bushings been replaced?

[mdmellott]

I think AlanAZ has it nailed. The steering rack bushings are not holding the rack in place.

[AlanAZ]

I thought it best to replace my steering rack bushing with genuine Nissan bushings, they have a knobby surface to provide more grip. And check your front sway bar bushings, since they are in the same area and could be similarly deteriorated.