Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
00 00... Steering Components: Checking For Zero Clearance, Leaks, Damage And Wear
Checking For Zero Clearance:
- Steering wheel:
Move steering wheel back and forth and check for zero clearance.
- Tie rod joint:
There must no clearance between tie rod arm (2) and tie rod joint (1).
Checking For Leaks:
The following illustrations shows the arrangement of the power steering components and lines.
| 1 | Pump | 6 | Hollow screw |
| 2 | Oil cooler | 7 | Container |
| 3 | Return line | 8 | Suction hose |
| 4 | Steering gear | D | Sealing ring |
| 5 | Pressure line | - | - |
Check all visible connections, hoses, lines and steering gear for traces of fluid.
Checking For Damage And Wear:
Check steering sleeves, flexible disc and axle and tie rod sleeves for damage (e.g. cracks, holes) for leaks or missing clamping bands on gaiters.
NO RELATED
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.