Rattutslag

Rattutslag is a Swedish term that refers to the angular displacement or deflection of the steering wheel. In automotive usage, it describes how much the steering wheel must be turned from its center position to produce a corresponding change in the direction of the road wheels. The concept is closely tied to the relationship between steering input and the resulting wheel angle, and it can be discussed in terms of steering wheel angle as well as the wheel’s actual steering angle.

In practice, rattutslag can denote both the driver’s input range and the steering system’s response to disturbances. A large rattutslag means the driver must turn the wheel farther to achieve the same wheel angle, while a small or highly damped rattutslag implies a more sensitive or more controlled response. Modern vehicles use steering angle sensors and, in many cases, steering ratio and feedback characteristics to shape rattutslag for predictable handling and feel.

Several factors influence rattutslag, including the steering mechanism (manual, hydraulic, electric power-assisted, or steer-by-wire), steering gear ratio, component wear, wheel alignment, tire condition and pressure, suspension geometry, and road surface. Abnormal rattutslag can indicate issues such as excessive play in linkages, misalignment, worn bushings, or a faulty power-steering system.

Rattutslag is a standard consideration in vehicle design, tuning, and safety testing. It relates to but is distinct from other concepts such as steering feel, return-to-center behavior, and overall vehicle stability, all of which contribute to how a vehicle responds to steering inputs during driving.