Is the VGRS steering new for 2003 or has it always been there since 1998?

I have less than 2,000 km on the '03. The vehicle had what appeared to be an alignment problem since day 1. I was advised to have the "alignment" taken care of at 1st service (1,000 km).

Including the 1st service visit, the car has been taken to the dealer 4 times and they have tried to perform electronic alignment as well as "centering" the steering. Problem still persists. Here is the problem:

1. At low speeds (as in parking lots), when the steering is turned completely, after about one turn or so, there is a "vacuum" momentarily i.e. the steering feels completely soft and no effort is required for about 1/8 of a turn. The steering returns to normal functioning and effort is again required to continue turning.

2. At normal cruising, the steering has to be turned about 1/8th to the right to continue driving in straight line. Some time the problem is the exact opposite i.e. hold the steering to the left to go in straight line. All this is happening even after computerized alignment and "centering" the VGRS with dealer computer.

3. The steering is also very sensitive at high speeds (which defeats the purpose of VGRS - supposed to be hard at high speeds for better vehicle stability). I fund myself constantly have to move the steering 1/8th to the right or left to drive in a straight line!!!!.

4. After changing lanes from right to left, I have to turn the steering to the right again otherwise the car continues to drfit to the left.

I sold my Mercedes ML to purchase a Lexus LX. I am beginning to wonder if it was a mistake !!

I am wondering if others have experience similar problems or have explanations/advice they can share.

 

I've been having the exact same problem on my 06 GS430. Any luck fixing it? It seems to be a symptom of electronic intervention overload...