Why is my 2002 Mazda 6 knocking from the steering?

My car appears to have developed a slight knocking. It only occurs once I hit around 35mph, gets louder as I get faster, and is inaudible at motorway speeds due to the road noise. It's pretty quiet and happens whether I have the clutch in or out, in neutral or in gear, just as long as the car is moving at said speeds. I think it could be related to a knock/jerk I feel through the steering wheel when turning at low speed. No other symptoms noticed as of yet.

Asked on 28 July 2010 by jimmybeatle

Answered by Alan Ross
It sounds as though you may have worn driveshafts. To check, find an area that you can fully turn the car around (in circles) - a supermarket car park after it has closed is ideal. Drive the car forward at 10mph or so and then turn the steering lock fully to the left and listen for a knocking sound. Do the same by turning to the right, again listen for any knocking. If you do hear knocking, then it will require your driveshafts to be renewed.
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