Steering Wheel and Column Inspection

Play Inspection
1. With the wheels in the straight-ahead position, start the engine.
2. Turn the steering wheel to the left and right gently, and verify that the steering wheel play is within the
specification. (0 - 30 mm {0 - 1.2 in})

Looseness, Play Inspection
1. Move the steering wheel toward the shaft and in four right angle directions to inspect for looseness and
play.

steering wheel

If there is any malfunction, inspect the following, and repair or replace the applicable part.

  • Column bearing wear
  • Looseness of the steering wheel installation part
  • Looseness of the column installed part
  • Excessive play of the steering shaft joint
  • Excessive play of the steering gear

Steering Wheel Effort Inspection
1. Verify that the equipped tire size and tire air pressure is as specified.
2. With the vehicle on a hard, level surface, put the wheels in the straight-ahead position.

WARNING : Handling the air bag module improperly can accidentally deploy the air bag module, which may seriously injure you. Read the service warnings before handling the air bag module.

3. Remove the air bag module.
4. Start the engine and idle it.
5. Verify that the EPS warning light does not illuminate.
6. Inspect the steering wheel effort using a torque wrench.
steering wheel

If it exceeds the reference value, adjust the steering gear and linkage. Reference value 5.0 N·m {50 kgf·cm, 44 in·lbf} or less

NOTE:

  • To determine whether the steering effort is satisfactory or not, perform the inspection on another vehicle of the same model and under the same conditions, and compare the results.
  • The steering wheel effort varies with conditions indicated : (a) Road conditions: such as dry or wet, asphalt or  concrete ; (b) Tire conditions: such as brand, wear, and tire air pressure