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.
Pinpoint Tests R: Steering Column Mounted EPAS - Excessive Steering Wheel Play
- R1: CHECK THE STEERING COLUMN SHAFT FASTENERS
Check the steering column assembly for loose fasteners.
Check the steering gear for loose fasteners, worn or damaged bushings.
Are the fasteners and bushings in good condition?
Yes No Go to R2. For loose fasteners:
TIGHTEN the fasteners as necessary.
REFER to specifications, REFER to STEERING GEAR and REFER to STEERING COLUMN - Installation as necessary.
For worn steering gear bushing(s):
Install a new steering gear. - R2: CHECK THE STEERING COLUMN SHAFT U-JOINTS NOTE: The steering column must be locked in the straight ahead position using the service bolt (HB1), before the column is disconnected from the steering gear to prevent damage to the EPAS sensor internal clock-spring.
Inspect the steering column shaft U-joints for looseness or wear.
Are the steering column shaft U-joints in good condition?
Yes No Go to R3. INSTALL a new steering column shaft.
REFER to STEERING COLUMN SHAFT . - R3: CHECK THE INNER AND OUTER TIE RODS FOR MOVEMENT
With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. REFER to JACKING AND LIFTING .
Using hand force only, check the inner and outer tie rods for vertical and lateral movement in the tie-rod ball studs/sockets.
Are the inner and outer tie rods free from any vertical and/or lateral movement?
Yes No Go to R4. INSTALL a new inner or outer tie rod as necessary. REFER to TIE-ROD - INNER . - R4: CHECK THE SUSPENSION BALL JOINTS AND BUSHINGS FOR DAMAGE, SECURITY, EXCESSIVE FREE PLAY AND IMPEDED MOVEMENT
Check the suspension ball joints and bushings for damage, security, excessive free play and impeded movement.
Has a concern been identified?
Yes No REPAIR as necessary. Install a new steering gear. REFER to STEERING GEAR .
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.