09 JK with 23k miles,

When I turn left or right, the steering wheel wobbles back and forth strongly. There is no problem when I'm driving straight. It is almost like when you are in 4wd on dry pavement and turning but I haven't engaged the 4wd.

I tried turning slowly(4-5mph) but It don't shake at low speed and full turn. I don't hear any strange noise when turning either.

It seems to amplify under load (acceleration).

What could cause this issue? Bad alignment? front axle outer u-joint? worn tie-rod ends or ball-joint?

Where should I start first?

Thanks for your help!

 

I would jack up front axle leave one side on ground and see if you can move other wheel by hand side to side up and down .if there is have someone else do same while you look at steering linkage and ball joints..I wouldnt drive it until you find the loose or worn out part.also do same to other side.

 

ill look for ball-joint/tie-rod play today, but the jeep has only 23k miles, ball-joint could be bad already at 23k? I dont do hardcore wheeling, maybe soft trail once every 2 months.

I suspect a worn axle u-joint.

 

Well im no expert I was just giving you a point to start looking at .good luck