Suspension Check | Damaged Steering Rack?

Hey y'all. Got an interesting one here. I can't find too much information on this specific situation. Here's my post on Reddit that includes videos of what I'm referencing: POST

I initially noticed some bump steer in which my steering wheel would move by itself in the direction of uneven pavement or small bumps on the road. No unordinary noises. When doing a quick suspension check, I noticed play in the 9 and 3 o'clock position on both front tires. Moving the tires caused thumping underneath the driver's area. I then noticed the steering wheel moves perfectly in tandem with the tires and the thumping. I've researched the major suspension and steering components, but I can't find a situation where the steering wheel moves with everything else.

Note that beside the bump steer, I haven't had any noises while driving and no visible issues with the power steering fluid.

Would love some suggestions or to hear from anyone with a similar experience. Thanks in advance!

 

Is the steering unlocked? You should be able to turn the tires with the steering wheel. If not, it’s locked.

 

It is locked. Im guessing that's the thumping I was hearing. FYI... I just learned having both tires jacked up gives you the ability to actually turn the tires (and therefore move the steering wheel). I'm the definition of a beginner trying to learn vehicles and some DIY, so I may have recorded very normal behavior.

But anyways I'm going to redo the test with only one side lifted and the other tire on the ground. Will update!

 

You gotta start somewhere lol. You’re correct, the clunking was the wheel bouncing on the left/right limits of the lock.

Be safe when that thing is jacked up in the air! Ok, done with the dad speech. Have fun exploring!