What is wrong with my car? I was driving it last night, and the back of it was swerving all over the road??

Question

My check engine light came on a few days ago. I was planning on bringing the car to the shop today, but had to bring it last night, b/c when I was driving home from work, I almost lost control of it. I was driving straight, but the car was all over the road. It felt as if the wind was taking it, but it wasn't windy.... it was like the back tires had a mind of their own. I was told maybe ball joints or tie rods..... Wondering how much this will cost?

Answer 1

Without knowing which part or parts failed none of us would have a clue. You should always tell us the brand, make and model of the car. At best (I'd) we would be taking shots. If you have struts you may have a lower ball joint or inner or outer tire rod problem. Something may have failed in the rear suspension also. A flat tire. Spindle (wheel) bearing. Steering rack. Drag link. Idler arm. Dropped tie rod. Broken spring. When you find the problem, price the part or parts @ NAPA, Car Quest or new car dealer. When ever suspension parts are needed purchase either Moog or TRW parts with grease fittings if possible. You don't want worthless off - shore suspension parts if you value your neck.

Answer 2

Your description leaves a lot of possibilities.

If the rear tires are properly inflated, the problem could be the rear anti-sway bar.

It could also be a loose wheel, a bad wheel bearing, a broken shock absorber or a spring. The ball joints will not cause the rear sway; they are located in the front of the vehicle.

Also, the check engine light can be any number of things, including the need of a simple oil change. Here are a couple of sources that may help you.

Answer 3

Stop listening to whoever told you ball joints, since there is no such thing as rear steering in passenger cars. Was it wet or snowy? Perhaps slick tires and some hydroplaning going on. Did you look at your rear tires? Is one low or flat? That is the most likely reason assuming a clear and dry road.

It will cost parts, plus labor rate times the number of hours to fix it. I have no idea what your mechanic will find stored in the error codes when he scans your vehicle. I'm sure he will call you and tell you what you need and give you an estimate of cost when he knows.

Answer 4

Sorry no ball joints or tie rods on the back. look for a soft tire

Answer 5

Something must have bent or snapped if you hit a bump or pot hole wrong there is a possibilty. Hope and pray that it's not a major part, because if it is it will probably cost more than you car is worth (depending on the car).

Answer 6

maybe you broke a sway bar on the back.that would make the back sway.i got a 1988 olds delta 88 and some on here thinks i dont have ball joints on the back of my car,but if they were here i could prove it to them,but enough about my car.now getting back to your car,i would check the sway bar to see if the bushings were wore out.

Answer 7

It can be pretty pricey depending on where you take it. I would find a guy friend who knows a little something about cars. Us women tend to get the shaft when we go to a mechanic. They think we are stupid.

My husband is a mechanic. Plus I know alot from working on my own car.

Answer 8

Check your tires first. If they're OK then it might be something more serious such as your differential locking up, the stability control system malfunctioning, or something similar.
Try the most basic things first, that's the tires.

Answer 9

sounds such as you bent something interior the steerting or suspension device. i does no longer force it till I had a mechanic seem at it. a situation like this could value you better than income case you be attentive to what I advise. good luck with it

Answer 10

Flat tire........