Determining Steering Wheel Play

*EASY*

Determine the play in your steering wheel as follows:

  1. Park the vehicle on level ground with the engine OFF, the parking brake engaged, and the transmission in PARK (for automatic) or REVERSE (for manual). It may be necessary to turn the ignition key slightly to unlock the steering wheel.
  2. Look at the left front tire while slowly turning the steering wheel. Stop turning the steering wheel when the tire responds to avoid dry steering. Repeat this technique in the opposite direction.
  3. Approximate the linear distance your steering wheel rim moves before the tires respond; this is the steering wheel "play". If the steering wheel play exceeds one inch, have the steering system inspected and repaired by a professional automotive technician.

TOP SYSTEMS
BACK STEERING WHEEL & STEERING GEAR
PREVIOUS INSPECTING YOUR POWER STEERING GEAR
NEXT CORRECT OPERATION