Steering Wheel

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 Subaru Forester. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Set the steering wheel in a straight-ahead position, and check the wheel spokes to make sure they are correctly set in their specified positions.
Lightly turn the steering wheel to the left and right to determine the point where front wheels start to move.
Measure the distance of the movement of steering wheel (outer periphery).

Steering wheel free play:

0 - 17 mm (0 - 0.67 in)

Fig 1: Identifying Steering Wheel Free Play
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.

Move the steering wheel vertically toward the shaft to check if there is play in the direction.

Limit of play:

0.5 mm (0.020 in)
Drive the vehicle and check the following items.
1. Steering force:
  The effort required for steering should be smooth and even at all points, and should not vary.
2. Pulled to one side:
  Steering wheel should not be pulled to either side while driving on a level surface.
3. Wheel runout:
  Steering wheel should not show any sign of runout.
4. Return shape:
  The steering wheel should return to its original position after it has been turned by hand and then released.