Steering Linkage (Free Play)

With the wheels in the straight-ahead position, gently turn the steering wheel to the left and right to check free play. Free play should be between 0-6 mm (0-0.25 inch) at the steering wheel rim. If the free play exceeds this limit, either the steering joints are worn or the backlash of the power rack and pinion steering gear is excessive. Backlash cannot be adjusted. Install a new power steering short rack.

Grasp the steering wheel firmly and move it up and down and to the left and right without turning the wheel to check for column bearing wear, steering column shaft joint play, steering wheel, or steering column looseness. Install new components as necessary.