Car acting squirrelly

[Sloop]

Hi all,

So I have had my Spicy Orange for almost a year now and for the past two months the car has become a little squirrelly in the suspension department. It is completely stock. I do indulge myself in spirited driving every so often. I have had the back kick out a few times. The main problem is the steering wheel moves a lot. It picks up every knock in the road. I know we have hi po tires but c’mon. It is like the car wanders. It is not aligned properly and this is not the problem. Any suggestions on what it might be?

Thanks in advance,

John

[CarlM2]

Did you mean to say that it IS aligned properly? If you go to a really good alignment shop, they should be able to check things out. It could also be low air pressure... a blown or leaking strut.. or something else that someone would have to see.

[funnylittlman]

Don't quote me on this,

but I heard once you upgrade the bushings (which I have done) it tightens the rear a bit.

[ping]

CHECK YOUR TIRE PRESSURE (early, and often).

Low tires cause more wandering and rut-following, and winter brings out the worst in ruts, so the combination means a squirrely front end.

Low temperatures cause low tire pressure, ~1psi drop per 10 degree drop, so a 32psi tire at 80 degrees in summer becomes a 27psi (well underinflated) tire at 30 degrees for your morning commute.

Other items that can cause wander:
- alignment (check)
- tire balance or out-of-round (check and correct)
- rotate tires (if the wander occurs after rotation, switch R and L side tires - if it goes away, it's a "tire pull", inherent to the tires. Problem with this technique on an MSP is the tires are directional - you'll have to get 'em re-mounted to keep 'em on that side).
- worn suspension bushings in the REAR - not only causes the dreaded clunk, but also can allow the rear to get squirrely, but mainly under more severe cornering.

Good luck!

[AutoBox]

i know i get alot of feedback when i got over bumps and stuff especially during turns...i figured the lsd was doin its job ....dunno if they is whatur experiencing

[No.5]

The car does handle like it's on rails with the Bridgestones...

I did have an issue with my car pulling to the right; I'm going in for a wheel alignment (covered under warranty).

[Sloop]

What should be the correct tire pressure for our cars?