Steering Wheel Free Play

With the ignition OFF and the wheels in the straight ahead position, gently turn the wheel to the left and right to check for free play. Free play should be between 0-35 mm (0-1.38 inches). If the free play exceeds this limit, check for worn steering U joints and yokes, worn tower steering column shaft or excessive backlash in the steering gear.

Move the steering wheel in the direction of the arrows as shown. While moving the steering wheel, check for:
^ steering column bearing wear.
^ steering shaft joint play.
^ steering wheel looseness.
^ steering column looseness.