Steering kickback relates to the sharp and rapid movements of an automobile's steering wheel

Steering wheel

A steering wheel is a type of steering control in vehicles and vessels ....

 as the front wheels encounter a significant obstruction or imperfection in the road. The amount of kickback is dependent on a variety of factors, namely the angle of impact with the obstruction or imperfection, health and stiffness of the vehicle's shock absorber

Shock absorber

A shock absorber is a mechanical device designed to smooth out or damp shock impulse, and dissipate kinetic energy. It is a type of dashpot.-Nomenclature:...

s, and the speed of the vehicle, as well as the type of steering mechanism used and its mechanical advantage

Mechanical advantage

Mechanical advantage is a measure of the force amplification achieved by using a tool, mechanical device or machine system. Ideally, the device preserves the input power and simply trades off forces against movement to obtain a desired amplification in the output force...

.

Rack and pinion steering may be susceptible to kickback, as the steering rack transmits forces in either direction. A steering box design, such as worm and sector or recirculating ball

Recirculating ball

Recirculating ball, also known as recirculating ball and nut or worm and sector, is a steering mechanism commonly found in older automobiles, and some trucks...

, is much less sensitive. Despite this, the other advantages of rack and pinion steering have led to its almost universal adoption, at least for light automobiles.

Steering kickback should not be confused with torque steering

Torque steering

Torque steering is the influence of engine torque on the steering for some front-wheel drive vehicles. For example, during heavy acceleration the steering may pull to one side, which may be disturbing to the driver. The effect is manifested either as a tugging sensation in the steering wheel, or a...

, bump steer

Bump Steer

Bump steer is the term for the tendency of a wheel to steer as it moves upwards into jounce. It is typically measured in degrees per metre or degrees per foot....

 or roll steer. These are similar outside influences that affect the direction of travel, but they do not cause a movement at the driver's wheel.