I'm probably imagining this, but lately I've been feeling like the steering in my 5th gen is somewhat stiff. It's not difficult or tough, there's no pump noise, but I wanted to ask around here. The Runner feels somewhat stiffer in steering compared to my GF's 2017 Rav4 and significantly stiffer to an Audi Q5 I've been driving recently (on loan). Maybe Audi's EPS just feels way easier? I don't drive my Runner all the time, so maybe I just forgot.

I probably would not have even posted about it if I didn't look at the PS fluid. Level was spot on but the color was somewhat dark. Not black, but a little dark and there was some darker residue on the 'dipstick' attached to the reservoir cap. Normal for 40k miles?

I asked the GF when she drove it and she didn't think it felt heavy, neither did a Toyota's service advisor whose friend supposedly has a 5th gen.

For what it's worth, I know 285s will add to heavier steering, and I have my caster set to 4.1* Perhaps the caster also contributes to this resistance? The return to center sure is great, though.

Bumpidy bump.

Literally everything you listed are valid reasons why the steering feels heavier. You’re probably fine.


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I have a limited and yes it’s damn heavy steering compared to other AWD SUV’s I own .


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I think in general the old school hydraulic steering systems have a little heavier feel and better centering.

I rent a lot of different cars on business travel and find many of the electronic steering racks to be a little too light for my taste with vague centering. Personal preferences vary of course.

In addition to tire size, lower tire pressures can contribute to a heavier steering feel too.

check your tire pressures.

At what speed do you notice this. Most car manufacturers stiffen up the steering a bit at higher speeds so it is not so sensitive.