2015+ WRX Steering Rack Clunk

whiplash willy · 10-24-2017, 01:10 PM

It seems that several users have report having a clunk coming from the front end when they are either driving slow (less then 5mph) or stopped, and move their steering wheel back and fourth quickly.

Here is a video of me reproducing this noise for reference:

YouTube (Short URL)

It seems to be a problem with the electronic steering rack itself. There are other common sources of clunking in the front end, that further complicates the matter. Sources of these other clunks are commonly from bad Strut Top Hats and Strut related issues.

It seems that this noise isn't apparent when brand new, but occurs within a few thousand miles after use. For some users it gets worse after time, others it stays the same. A few members have had their steering racks replaced by warranty, which initially solved the clunk, but it returned shortly after.

I have had this issue since about 2k miles, and I am now at 16k miles. The noise hasn't gotten any worse.

I am creating this poll to see how common this issue is. Please only answer in regards to the clunk in the steering rack, which is reproduced when stopped, and turning the steering wheel back and fourth quickly, like in the video above. I don't want to skew the results with the other common front end clunks our cars have.

In addition to the poll, please reply with any information you can on your own experience with this issue. What have you tried to fix it? Have you had any success? How long has it been going one? Has it gotten any worse?

Also, the following thread has more details on this issue:
https://forums.nasioc.com/forums/sho....php?t=2762301

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_brian_ · 10-24-2017, 07:18 PM

mine has the stationary clunk with various stages of modification almost since i drove it off the lot, its definitely the steering and hasn't got better or worse.

stock top hats
perrin steering lockdown with/without
rce yellows
gtworx bilstein with/without whiteline top hats
stock and superpro balljoints

adafoo · 10-27-2017, 02:14 PM

I've noticed the stationary clunk get progressively worse from ~20k miles to 40k miles.

During this time I've had RCE yellows with stock struts, and now I currently have BC coilovers. 2017 base model WRX.

vtwinjunkie · 11-27-2017, 01:48 PM

Yep. I have the same steering wheel clunk

uofime · 11-28-2017, 11:49 AM

Tried to listen for this this morning, I don't really hear it like in the video. I do have marshmallow spec winter tires on at the moment though.

Tangentially related, on other Subarus people change out the rack bushings, but that's not something anyone does on the EPAS models. Has anyone ever looked at the bushings on these?

In all likelihood this would make this phenomenon more noticeable not less, but I'm still curious

vtwinjunkie · 12-01-2017, 05:22 PM

I feel like mine has always done this. I am at 18k miles now... Perhaps it is just a characteristic of the racks used.

Id like to hear if anyone's rack has actually failed or developed play.

_brian_ · 12-01-2017, 11:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by uofime

Tangentially related, on other Subarus people change out the rack bushings, but that's not something anyone does on the EPAS models. Has anyone ever looked at the bushings on these?

In all likelihood this would make this phenomenon more noticeable not less, but I'm still curious

they are very soft. you can see them and squish them easily under the car. i asked Perrin if they are planning on making firmer ones and they said not right now.

killadawg · 12-02-2017, 02:03 PM

I have the clunk and I have replaced all my front end parts except the steering rack.. I have an STI one from the wrecked 2015 I used for my drivetrain swap... feel bad for the dude.. yet damn it only has 1.4k miles so all new!!

I have RCE springs with GTWORKS struts, White line End links, SuperPro LCA with all SP bushings etc.., White line Front Roll centre/bump steer - correction kit and camber adjustment bolts.. Perrin Steering lockdown, etc.. AP BBK.. all lubed and most spanking new.. and still bum-pity pump at slow steering.. it is all fine once over 5 or 6 mph

uofime · 12-05-2017, 03:45 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by killadawg

I have the clunk and I have replaced all my front end parts except the steering rack.. I have an STI one from the wrecked 2015 I used for my drivetrain swap... feel bad for the dude.. yet damn it only has 1.4k miles so all new!!

I have RCE springs with GTWORKS struts, White line End links, SuperPro LCA with all SP bushings etc.., White line Front Roll centre/bump steer - correction kit and camber adjustment bolts.. Perrin Steering lockdown, etc.. AP BBK.. all lubed and most spanking new.. and still bum-pity pump at slow steering.. it is all fine once over 5 or 6 mph

STI rack is hydraulic, WRX rack is electric. It is not an easy swap, you'd need to add a power steering pump.

whiplash willy · 12-05-2017, 03:46 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by killadawg

I have the clunk and I have replaced all my front end parts except the steering rack.. I have an STI one from the wrecked 2015 I used for my drivetrain swap... feel bad for the dude.. yet damn it only has 1.4k miles so all new!!

I have RCE springs with GTWORKS struts, White line End links, SuperPro LCA with all SP bushings etc.., White line Front Roll centre/bump steer - correction kit and camber adjustment bolts.. Perrin Steering lockdown, etc.. AP BBK.. all lubed and most spanking new.. and still bum-pity pump at slow steering.. it is all fine once over 5 or 6 mph

I am glad this thread is getting more responses, I figured it was dead. It is good info to have!

Killadawg, are you saying you are going to replace your Electric Steering Rack with a hydraulic one from a STI?

sleepyfu · 12-05-2017, 07:21 PM

2017 wrx premium model here, it's the wife's car, but I noticed the steering clunk shortly after purchase, had less then 1K mile when I noticed it. Have not spent any time trouble shooting, most likely will just take it back to dealer since it is under warranty period.

JouShark · 12-07-2017, 10:10 AM

I have a 2017 WRX that does the exact same thing. It clunks when I turn the wheel at low speeds and also if I move the wheel back and forth when I am parked. I brought the car to the dealership and they said it is "characteristic".

killadawg · 12-07-2017, 10:18 AM

Yup I know STI and WRX have different type of steering racks (I also have the full set of STI parts (W\O the engine and interior.. half which is already swapped out ;-) yet not sure I want to wrench with this.. all working fine, and I can live with a small clunk at low speeds. I know mooresport makes a subframe for the VA chassis that might eliminate the clunk and if I do go the hydraulic way I will add that subframe as well. This summer I'm switching to MCS 2 or 3 way suspension, so I shall see if it is the top hats that does this noise, as with that setup stock will be replaced.

BTW for me the Dealer has been just trouble, every recall they forget to plug something in, or my hose clamps are on loose and blow out on they way home with no tools..etc.. good luck with that.

IanWebster · 02-02-2018, 10:57 AM

I copied my response on another, similar thread, here it is:

I have a 2015 WRX, bare bones model. I bought it around January 10th of 2015, give or take a few days. It has, to my knowledge, had the clunking since I bought it, though I didn't notice it being very pronounced until it reached the 10,000 mile area.

I just took it to get it looked at a week and a half ago, from the time of this forum post. They apparently *were* able to duplicate the issue, and referred to a particular TSB about the front strut mounts (Subaru supposedly altered the manufacturing process specifically in terms of the front struts, which must have lessened this issue? I have no idea).

Nevertheless, they apparently ordered a "kit" (service rep's own words), and fixed it, along with a free alignment. And the sound is still there, and seems even worse and more "harsh" now. It's really aggravating.

Since I'm a new member, I can't vote in your poll. I *do* have the clunking noise, and I *did* take it in for service, however, the steering rack has not been replaced.

ZerolFaithl · 10-18-2018, 11:06 PM

Same issue here comes from the front right at low speeds, haven't bothered to trouble shoot at all. 40k BC coils, whiteline sways and links

arterberry13 · 10-19-2018, 02:13 PM

I have a 2017 WRX with 40k miles. The noise has gotten worse over time. It's really loud under 10 MPH. Whats the fix to get rid of this noise? If not replaced, will it cause any damage?

jstaabs · 02-25-2019, 01:33 PM

Having the same issue. I have RCE yellows on my 2016 WRX. I can hear it under 10MPH and when stopped if i turn back and fourth. It started this past summer.

fullah · 09-30-2019, 08:19 PM

Has anyone experienced loose steering in conjunction with this noise?

Rini · 03-18-2020, 10:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by whiplash willy

It seems that several users have report having a clunk coming from the front end when they are either driving slow (less then 5mph) or stopped, and move their steering wheel back and fourth quickly.

Here is a video of me reproducing this noise for reference:
https://youtu.be/n5_2mrcAYbA

It seems to be a problem with the electronic steering rack itself. There are other common sources of clunking in the front end, that further complicates the matter. Sources of these other clunks are commonly from bad Strut Top Hats and Strut related issues.

It seems that this noise isn't apparent when brand new, but occurs within a few thousand miles after use. For some users it gets worse after time, others it stays the same. A few members have had their steering racks replaced by warranty, which initially solved the clunk, but it returned shortly after.

I have had this issue since about 2k miles, and I am now at 16k miles. The noise hasn't gotten any worse.

I am creating this poll to see how common this issue is. Please only answer in regards to the clunk in the steering rack, which is reproduced when stopped, and turning the steering wheel back and fourth quickly, like in the video above. I don't want to skew the results with the other common front end clunks our cars have.

In addition to the poll, please reply with any information you can on your own experience with this issue. What have you tried to fix it? Have you had any success? How long has it been going one? Has it gotten any worse?

Also, the following thread has more details on this issue:
https://forums.nasioc.com/forums/sho....php?t=2762301

I have a 2018 WRX, 20k. Same problem. If you put your foot on brake and move steering wheel back and for clunking happened.
Took to dealer, they replaced entire steering rack, said something was defective.

2017WRXman · 03-29-2020, 06:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rini

I have a 2018 WRX, 20k. Same problem. If you put your foot on brake and move steering wheel back and for clunking happened.
Took to dealer, they replaced entire steering rack, said something was defective.

Did that fix the issue and now there is no clunk?

fullah · 03-29-2020, 08:30 PM

I came across this post on another forum that lists the wrx as well but there is a dealer procedure to adjust the steering rack and replace a spring that is supposed to relieve some noise. If it doesn't then a new rack replacement is warranted. I took mine to the dealer for the noise and they told me it's normal and turned me away. Im considering trying this adjustment myself instead of wasting another day at the dealer. The spring it about $15 and the lash adjustment is free but in the diagram is looks like there is a speciality tool needed. Not sure if u can do the procedure without it but it looks like you have to remove the rack from the car to get to it. See the post below and there is an attachment on one of the posts that shows the lash adjustment

https://www.subaruoutback.org/thread...377209/page-10

View Poll Results: Does your 2015+ Electric Steering Rack Clunk?
Yes	13	72.22%
No	5	27.78%
Yes, it was replaced and is fixed	0	0%
Yes, it was replaced and not fixed	0	0%
Multiple Choice Poll. Voters: 18. You may not vote on this poll

11-27-2017, 01:48 PM	#4
vtwinjunkie Scooby Newbie Member#: 415503 Join Date: Mar 2015 Chapter/Region: MAIC Location: Nova Vehicle: 2016 WRX limited black silica	Yep. I have the same steering wheel clunk Last edited by vtwinjunkie; 12-01-2017 at 05:23 PM.

02-02-2018, 10:57 AM	#14
IanWebster Scooby Newbie Member#: 481524 Join Date: Feb 2018	Definitely have this. I copied my response on another, similar thread, here it is: I have a 2015 WRX, bare bones model. I bought it around January 10th of 2015, give or take a few days. It has, to my knowledge, had the clunking since I bought it, though I didn't notice it being very pronounced until it reached the 10,000 mile area. I just took it to get it looked at a week and a half ago, from the time of this forum post. They apparently were able to duplicate the issue, and referred to a particular TSB about the front strut mounts (Subaru supposedly altered the manufacturing process specifically in terms of the front struts, which must have lessened this issue? I have no idea). Nevertheless, they apparently ordered a "kit" (service rep's own words), and fixed it, along with a free alignment. And the sound is still there, and seems even worse and more "harsh" now. It's really aggravating. Since I'm a new member, I can't vote in your poll. I do have the clunking noise, and I did take it in for service, however, the steering rack has not been replaced.

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10-24-2017, 07:18 PM	#2
_brian_ Scooby Specialist Member#: 337626 Join Date: Nov 2012 Chapter/Region: TXIC Location: Dallas, Texas Vehicle: 2015 WRX Crystal White Pearl	mine has the stationary clunk with various stages of modification almost since i drove it off the lot, its definitely the steering and hasn't got better or worse. stock top hats perrin steering lockdown with/without rce yellows gtworx bilstein with/without whiteline top hats stock and superpro balljoints

10-27-2017, 02:14 PM	#3
adafoo Scooby Newbie Member#: 463575 Join Date: Feb 2017	I've noticed the stationary clunk get progressively worse from ~20k miles to 40k miles. During this time I've had RCE yellows with stock struts, and now I currently have BC coilovers. 2017 base model WRX.

11-28-2017, 11:49 AM	#5
uofime Scooby Specialist Member#: 421271 Join Date: May 2015 Chapter/Region: MWSOC Location: Chicago Vehicle: 2015 WRX Galaxy Blue Pearl	Tried to listen for this this morning, I don't really hear it like in the video. I do have marshmallow spec winter tires on at the moment though. Tangentially related, on other Subarus people change out the rack bushings, but that's not something anyone does on the EPAS models. Has anyone ever looked at the bushings on these? In all likelihood this would make this phenomenon more noticeable not less, but I'm still curious

12-01-2017, 05:22 PM	#6
vtwinjunkie Scooby Newbie Member#: 415503 Join Date: Mar 2015 Chapter/Region: MAIC Location: Nova Vehicle: 2016 WRX limited black silica	I feel like mine has always done this. I am at 18k miles now... Perhaps it is just a characteristic of the racks used. Id like to hear if anyone's rack has actually failed or developed play.

12-02-2017, 02:03 PM	#8
killadawg Scooby Specialist Member#: 424203 Join Date: Jun 2015 Chapter/Region: NWIC Location: Mountains WA Vehicle: 2016 WRX STage ?? STI/PPG/ GM	I have the clunk and I have replaced all my front end parts except the steering rack.. I have an STI one from the wrecked 2015 I used for my drivetrain swap... feel bad for the dude.. yet damn it only has 1.4k miles so all new!! I have RCE springs with GTWORKS struts, White line End links, SuperPro LCA with all SP bushings etc.., White line Front Roll centre/bump steer - correction kit and camber adjustment bolts.. Perrin Steering lockdown, etc.. AP BBK.. all lubed and most spanking new.. and still bum-pity pump at slow steering.. it is all fine once over 5 or 6 mph

12-05-2017, 07:21 PM	#11
sleepyfu Scooby Specialist Member#: 124219 Join Date: Aug 2006 Chapter/Region: NWIC Location: Seattle, WA Vehicle: 2017 WRX (P) Lapis blue	2017 wrx premium model here, it's the wife's car, but I noticed the steering clunk shortly after purchase, had less then 1K mile when I noticed it. Have not spent any time trouble shooting, most likely will just take it back to dealer since it is under warranty period.

12-07-2017, 10:10 AM	#12
JouShark Scooby Newbie Member#: 478850 Join Date: Dec 2017	I have a 2017 WRX that does the exact same thing. It clunks when I turn the wheel at low speeds and also if I move the wheel back and forth when I am parked. I brought the car to the dealership and they said it is "characteristic".

12-07-2017, 10:18 AM	#13
killadawg Scooby Specialist Member#: 424203 Join Date: Jun 2015 Chapter/Region: NWIC Location: Mountains WA Vehicle: 2016 WRX STage ?? STI/PPG/ GM	Yup I know STI and WRX have different type of steering racks (I also have the full set of STI parts (W\O the engine and interior.. half which is already swapped out ;-) yet not sure I want to wrench with this.. all working fine, and I can live with a small clunk at low speeds. I know mooresport makes a subframe for the VA chassis that might eliminate the clunk and if I do go the hydraulic way I will add that subframe as well. This summer I'm switching to MCS 2 or 3 way suspension, so I shall see if it is the top hats that does this noise, as with that setup stock will be replaced. BTW for me the Dealer has been just trouble, every recall they forget to plug something in, or my hose clamps are on loose and blow out on they way home with no tools..etc.. good luck with that.

10-18-2018, 11:06 PM	#15
ZerolFaithl Scooby Newbie Member#: 448133 Join Date: Jun 2016 Chapter/Region: South East Location: Charlotte NC Vehicle: 2016 WRX Base Grey	Same issue here comes from the front right at low speeds, haven't bothered to trouble shoot at all. 40k BC coils, whiteline sways and links

10-19-2018, 02:13 PM	#16
arterberry13 Scooby Newbie Member#: 449413 Join Date: Jun 2016 Chapter/Region: NWIC Location: Olympia Vehicle: 2017 WRX ISM	I have a 2017 WRX with 40k miles. The noise has gotten worse over time. It's really loud under 10 MPH. Whats the fix to get rid of this noise? If not replaced, will it cause any damage?

02-25-2019, 01:33 PM	#17
jstaabs Scooby Newbie Member#: 314845 Join Date: Mar 2012 Chapter/Region: MWSOC Location: Sheboygan, WI Vehicle: 2016 wrx black	Having the same issue. I have RCE yellows on my 2016 WRX. I can hear it under 10MPH and when stopped if i turn back and fourth. It started this past summer.

09-30-2019, 08:19 PM	#18
fullah Scooby Newbie Member#: 233053 Join Date: Dec 2009	Has anyone experienced loose steering in conjunction with this noise?

03-29-2020, 08:30 PM	#21
fullah Scooby Newbie Member#: 233053 Join Date: Dec 2009	I came across this post on another forum that lists the wrx as well but there is a dealer procedure to adjust the steering rack and replace a spring that is supposed to relieve some noise. If it doesn't then a new rack replacement is warranted. I took mine to the dealer for the noise and they told me it's normal and turned me away. Im considering trying this adjustment myself instead of wasting another day at the dealer. The spring it about $15 and the lash adjustment is free but in the diagram is looks like there is a speciality tool needed. Not sure if u can do the procedure without it but it looks like you have to remove the rack from the car to get to it. See the post below and there is an attachment on one of the posts that shows the lash adjustment https://www.subaruoutback.org/thread...377209/page-10