Checking Steering Gear

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Nissan Altima. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Check gear housing and boots for looseness, damage and fluid leakage.
Check connection with steering column for looseness.
Prior to removing the steering gear from the vehicle, check rack sliding force. Refer to CHECKING RACK SLIDING FORCE .
If rack sliding force is not within specification, adjust rack sliding force. Refer to ADJUSTMENT FOR RACK SLIDING FORCE .

Fig 1: Checking Gear Housing And Boots For Looseness, Damage And Fluid Leakage

Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.