2002 Grand Prix SE, same one I just did the LIM gasket on.

Coming down from skiing and sledding with the whole family in the car. Snowing heavily. Took a curve going too fast, slid into the ditch. Rode it out, got her back on the road. Stopped at the next possible turn-off and inspected her. Everything seemed fine, no body damage, nothing leaking.

A few miles later the car start getting vibrations in the front end and the steering got squirrely. Then I notice that the steering wheel is turned 120 degrees to the left while the car is going straight. Crap.

Pulled off again and parked with the steering wheel straight. Left wheel pointed directly forward, right wheel pointed significantly to the right, maybe five degrees.

I should have probably called for a tow right then and there, but I just wanted to get her home, so I drove. Got here okay, and the steering got better once we were out of the snow and ice.

Getting ready to pull the right front wheel off and see what I did to her. I'm hoping it'* something minor like the outer tie-rod end. Any input on this would be appreciated. I'll update with findings.

Next time we'll go ahead and take the Suburban.

Probably pushed the outer tie rod over the threads. If its way out of alignment, you probably should have it towed to a shop to have it realigned.

Look forward to hear whats wrong after the ditch tour. I've experienced this in winter before and have to say it not where u want to be. A 4x4 is preferred wherever possible for real winter conditions. I take chances sometimes as well, touring in the sedan in the mountains trying to save fuel, wishing I would have taken the Jeep by the time I get home.
So far this year I have not taken the Buick out to winter play, but it wasnt long ago the fresh powder was calling.
https://www.gmforum.com/your-ride-gm...-storm-306078/

Bent a-frame,strut comes to mind. Usually if tie rods go the get bent or broken. I would put money on the a-frame, although admittedly not much money...

im with mike, tie rod is the least strong part in there and most likely to be messed up.

Looks like I get to learn how to fix a new thing.




I've given the area a visual inspection to see if anything else is damaged,
but I can't see anything that looks wrong aside from the obvious.
Is it possible or probable that I've damaged whatever it is that the inner tie rod connects to?
Any thoughts or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

it connects to the rack, you should inspect its mounting for cracks and such

And Justin wins the grand prize!! Bent tie rod it is!!

Thanks for all the input, gentlemen.

Another question.
The disc and caliper assembly has some in-and-out play.
Is this normal, or have I damaged it?

The brake caliper is suppose to "float" on its carriage bolts if that'* what you are talking about.