Contents: Checking the steering wheel free play 🠛 Checking the steering column 🠛 Checking the steering wheel effort 🠛
Checking the steering wheel free play
Set the wheels to the straight-ahead position and, by turning the steering wheel slightly left and right, check that the free play is within the norm.
If the steering wheel free play is not within the normal range, the cause may be worn tie rod joints, wear or excessive play in the steering gear. Repair as necessary.
Steering wheel free play 0–30 mm.
Checking the steering column
Fig. 5.3. Checking the steering column
By moving the steering wheel as shown in Figure 5.3, check the wear of the steering column bearing, free play in the steering shaft joint, and the reliability of the fastening of the steering wheel and steering column.
Repair or replace parts if necessary.
Checking the steering wheel effort
Check the following:
- tire size and tire pressure;
- fluid level in the power steering reservoir;
- tension of the power steering pump drive belt.
Place the vehicle on a hard horizontal surface and position the wheels so that they are pointing straight ahead.
Remove the airbag module.
Caution: Be careful when removing the module.
Start the engine and warm up the power steering fluid to 50–60°C.
Fig. 5.4. Measuring the steering wheel force
Measure the force on the steering wheel using a torque wrench (Fig. 5.4).
If the force is not within the norm, check the following:
- presence of air in the hydraulic system of the power steering;
- leaks through hoses and their connections;
- operation of the power steering pump and steering gear.
Steering wheel effort 7.8 Nm.
Note: To check the steering effort, compare it with the steering effort of another vehicle of the same model under the same conditions.
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The steering force depends on the following conditions:
- road surface condition (dry or wet, asphalt or concrete);
- tire condition (manufacturer, wear level, tire pressure).