So, while my car has been repainted and garaged for like 3 weeks, I've been driving a new loaner vehicle (2013 Chevy)

I just got my car back today, and realized the steering is just downright ****ty. It's always been loose, but I guess I just got adjusted to it over time. I noticed just driving 1/2 mile down the road, turning was very unresponsive. I can literally turn the wheel 45-60 degrees, and the wheels barely turn.

I'm kinda remorseful now cause i spent my insurance check to get the body damage done, but now I've got a steering issue on my hand (just normal wear an tear, not accident related). I Just didn't realize what a difference it made til I drove a different car for awhile.

So far, I've only replaced 2 inner tie rods. Every time I go for alignments or other suspension work, I get told "everything else is fine". Is this just normal for an older car, or do I need steering overhaul?

 

Check your sway bar links. They can give a sloppy feeling also. If they are original you may want to change them.

 

^ I'd venture to say that sounds pretty normal, especially comparing it to a brand new 2013 car (that's like 16 years age difference on suspension, esp. if you're on stock suspension)

I recently was driving a 2001 Maxima GLE, getting it ready for sale..And I have to say, it felt horrible.

I thought my 2000 SE used to feel bad on stock suspension, but I was way wrong.. To me every Maxi I drove that wasn't an SE felt completely horrible like a boat, especially when you add the age thing and wear and tear, etc...

The 2000 SE felt the stiffest on stock suspension, followed by the 01 AE.
With the 5.5gens coming in third, and 4th gens after that, 4th place (no pun intended).

 

Humph, so how does the SE differ from the GXE/GLE suspension?

I should also mention for awhile (I asked here too), I had vibration, oftentimes severe in the steering and seats. I got new struts, alignments, brakes, etc.. Upgrading tires and the inner tie rods cut down on a lot of that. I just wonder if other stuff may have become worn

At the same time, I don't wanna (and can't right now anyway) start doing part by part fixes for infinity. So, if excessive play can be adjusted....I'd like to start there. Power steering belt?

 

Jack up your car and inspect it if you think somethings wrong....If you find nothing and your tires are wearing good, chances are the tight New suspension on that 2013 Chevy and it's more rigid designed unibody, and quicker steering has affected you....You can tighten yours up with better struts, a slight drop, better sway bar bushings, end link bushings, and even maybe new LCA assys along with some grippy tires! It's not that big of a task!