INSPECTION PROCEDURE 1: Excessive Play of Steering Wheel: Diagnosis
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Dodge Stratus and 2005 Chrysler Sebring. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- STEP 1. Check for looseness at the steering shaft coupling section and at the steering wheel linkage.
Q: Is there any looseness?
YES : Repair or replace the part. Then go to Step 3.
NO: Go to Step 2.
- STEP 2. Check the steering wheel free play.
- With engine running (hydraulic operation), set front wheels straight ahead.
- Measure the play on steering wheel circumference before wheels start to move when slightly moving the steering wheel in both directions.
Limit: 30 mm (1.2 inch)
- If the free play exceeds the limit value, set steering wheel straight ahead with engine stopped. Load approximately 5 N (1.1 lb) toward steering circumference and check play.
Standard value (steering wheel play with engine stopped): 10 mm (0.3 inch) or less
Q: Does the play exceed the standard value?
YES : Remove steering gear box and check total pinion torque (Refer to POWER STEERING GEAR BOX ASSEMBLY , >> B << RETURN HOSE ASSEMBLY INSTALLATION ). Then go to Step 3.
NO: Go to Step 3.
- STEP 3. Check steering wheel play.
Verify that the steering wheel play is not excessive.
Q: Is the steering wheel play excessive?
YES : Repeat from Step 1.
NO: Diagnosis is complete.