Mercedes E350 Owner Faces Dangerous Steering Issue After EPS Replacement

A 2016 Mercedes-Benz E350 4Matic owner is grappling with a terrifying steering problem after a second electric power steering rack replacement. The car, with 86,000 miles, had its first rack swapped under a salvage yard warranty, and the same technician installed the replacement.

At the same time, the owner had front struts and mounts replaced to address lingering clunks over bumps.

But the real trouble started on the road. The steering feels vague on center and grows alarmingly stiff at higher speeds. On the highway, the wheel refuses to return to center after even a slight turn—making for a white-knuckle drive. The owner describes the behavior as “absolutely terrifying” and is hoping it’s not a third defective rack.

With the salvage yard out of stock on another unit, he’d likely have to pay labor again for yet another swap.

Several potential causes are on the table: incorrect EPS software coding, a misaligned steering angle sensor, improper coupling of the steering shaft during installation, or even binding from the new strut mounts or springs. The owner has shared two YouTube videos showing the steering behavior with both the original and replacement racks.

He’s asking the community for insight before going back to the shop or salvage yard.