Steering Wheel Jerk on Start

Maybe 1 out of every 5 starts my steering wheel jerks after I hit the button. Does anyone else experience this? Never had another car exhibit this type of behavior. 2022 TRD sport 4x4 with <3,000mi.

 

It hasn’t happened to me and have not heard it on a 3rd gen, other vehicles, maybe a long time ago.
But If you can capture on video and show the dealer, it might give you a better chance for a fix or documentation if it’s still under warranty. Warranty should be 3yrs/36k miles.
If not, sounds like a steering pump/rack valve maybe acting up.

 

Are the front wheels pointed straight or are they turned when parked?

 

Is it jerking like the power steering going berserk or is it just harshly releasing the steering interlock?

 

Do you use it as a grab handle getting in or out? If you turn the wheel while the ignition is off it will sit against the steering wheel lock until the ignition is pushed.

 

The wheels appear straight, but the steering wheel might be maybe 5 degrees off center usually to the right.

 

I don’t think so but wouldn’t rule it out 100%. I’ll be a little more conscious as to the conditions that precede its occurrence.

 

Never had this happen. In any vehicle.


Weird though, my dad used to turn the wheel to the right starting an old tractor of his

 

Just pull it over until it clicks, then start it. If that's what you're seeing, then that's what it is.

 

I suspect it's just a case of the ignition-steering interlock releasing when the ignition is turned on.
You probably had some tension on the steering wheel when you should down and that's where the wheel was locked. Upon starting the interlock releases and the steering wheel moves a bit.
Try to be sure that you do not have your hands on the wheel before shutting down AND don't use the wheel as a grab bar when exiting after shutting down.

 

Mine does it too. I believe it is the steering wheel being unlocked after you push the start button. I can hear an actuator motor run whenever the wheel does that jerk. I don't think it's abnormal.

 

It’s probably force against the ignition lock or force against the tires before shut off.

 

Mine does this. Usually due to a steering input (parking adjustment in the garage) I make as I shut down the truck. Assuming it’s the last input made to the steering rack so it just jumps a bit at start. Nothing I’ve been concerned about as it doesn’t happen if I pull in straight and park.