Steering: Testing and Inspection

Checking Steering Wheel Free Play
1. Start the engine with the steering wheel in the straight ahead position. Apply a force of 5 N (1.1 lbs.) to the steering wheel in the peripheral direction.





2. Measure the play at the circumference of the steering wheel.

Standard value:
Steering wheel free play: 30 mm (1.1 inch)

3. If the play exceeds the standard value, inspect the contact of the steering shaft and tie rod ball joints.

Checking Steering Wheel Return
Check the steering wheel return and confirm the following points:
1. The force required to turn the steering wheel and the wheel return should be the same for left and right for both moderate turns and sharp turns.
2. When the steering wheel is turned 90 degrees and held for a couple of seconds while the vehicle is being driven at 35 km/h (22 mph), the steering wheel should return at least 70% when it is released.

NOTE: If the steering wheel is turned very quickly, the steering wheel operation may be momentarily difficult. This is not a malfunction.