So I used the search feature and couldn't find an answer to my question so I'll post it here:

I've had my XLR about 2 months now. I came from driving an Infiniti EX35 sport ute. Since I've had it, it seems the steering is very sensitive, especially at high speeds ~60-80. It's like if I barely move my hand at these speeds, the car swerves right to that direction. What makes it more difficult, is that the wheel has more give than the Infiniti did so if I sneeze I could be in the next lane! :lol

Is this typical of the XLR and what I just have to get used to or does it sound like something is off? I love the car and if this is how it drives I will just have to adapt, but I want to make sure something is not awry. I did have the steering position sensor replaced because the "service stabilitrak" light was coming on, but otherwise nothing else has been done. I do sense it needs an alignment, but I can't see how that would affect what I'm seeing.

Any advice would be appreciated!

Thanks.

This is a normal condition. The faster you go, the more sensitive the steering becomes.

CC :seeya

If you thing the steering is senitive between 60 ~ 80 mph with the gear shift in the "Nortmal Mode", tap the gear shift lever to the left while in "High Gear" and note the difference.

My advice is to just drive your car and you'll get used to it and remember, this is a " Sporty Luxiury Car", unless you have a "V" series or modified as I have done with mine then it's a "Lixury Sport Car"!

Car & Driver Magizine called it "A corvtette that went to Finishing School and dressed in a Tuxedo".

My related problem is that the steering on my 04 is too heavy at speeds above 5mph. Intermettonly the service stabilitrak message comes on, but is off at next start-up. The service message appears after a hard accelleration. I can't relate it to steering, but maybe it is. Where is the steering position senor? I would love for mine to steer like a sportstar. arkansaswms@gmail.com

Your diagnosis makes good sense. The Steering Wheel Position Sensor is at the base of the steering column and is an integral part of the Stabilitrac system. Stabilitrac is applied to the front brakes when the steering wheel position doesn't match the yaw sensor, indicating the car is moving forward at the wrong angle. Steering wheel output is based on the position sensor and vehicle speed. A failure of the sensor circuit could cause both of your problems.

Remove the closeout panel under the steering column and you'll be able to see it easily. Inspect it's connector which has been involved in a TSB due to fretting caused by vibration. A plastic locking device can be installed by the dealer to keep the connector tight. While you're under there, have someone turn the steering wheel to see if there's any strain on the connector. You may need to re-route the harness as necessary to relieve the strain.

CC :seeya

Your diagnosis makes good sense. The Steering Wheel Position Sensor is at the base of the steering column and is an integral part of the Stabilitrac system. Stabilitrac is applied to the front brakes when the steering wheel position doesn't match the yaw sensor, indicating the car is moving forward at the wrong angle. Steering wheel output is based on the position sensor and vehicle speed. A failure of the sensor circuit could cause both of your problems.

Remove the closeout panel under the steering column and you'll be able to see it easily. Inspect it's connector which has been involved in a TSB due to fretting caused by vibration. A plastic locking device can be installed by the dealer to keep the connector tight. While you're under there, have someone turn the steering wheel to see if there's any strain on the connector. You may need to re-route the harness as necessary to relieve the strain.

CC :seeya

CC is offering good advice, however, I don't think it is 'turning' the steering that stretches/moves the cable, instead it is using the steering wheel adjustments (up/down/forward/back) that causes problems. There is more information in this forum, look out also for a link to a Vette C6 owner who has lots of pictures regarding how to install the retainer.

HTHs

This is a great point. Moving the column in and out has more of an effect on the SWPS connector. Turning the wheel effects the SWPS itself. Both movements can be used as a troubleshooting aid.

CC :seeya

This is a great point. Moving the column in and out has more of an effect on the SWPS connector. Turning the wheel effects the SWPS itself. Both movements can be used as a troubleshooting aid.

CC :seeya

Ah, is that what it is. Thanks for the clarification.

Thanks for the replies all! I'm getting used to the steering more and more, although I'm still pretty sure I need an alignment as well. :P