Looseness, Play Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Mazda RX-8. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Move the steering wheel toward the shaft and in four right angle directions to inspect for looseness and play.
- 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
Fig 1: Moving Steering Wheel Toward Shaft And In All Directions
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.