Pinpoint Test J: Excessive Steering Wheel Play
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Mercury Mariner and 2006 Ford Escape. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- J1 CHECK THE STEERING COLUMN BEARING
- Inspect the steering column mounting fasteners and bearings for looseness.
- Are the fasteners and bearings OK?
Yes: GO to J2.
No: TIGHTEN the steering column mounting fasteners or INSTALL a new steering column. REFER to REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION .
- J2 CHECK THE STEERING LINKAGE FOR LOOSENESS
- Carry out the steering linkage component test. Refer to COMPONENT TESTS .
- Is the steering linkage OK?
Yes: REFER to SUSPENSION SYSTEM-GENERAL INFORMATION for the suspension diagnosis and testing.
No: INSTALL new steering linkage as necessary. REFER to STEERING LINKAGE .