2002 Lexus LS 430FACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Steering Wheel: Inspection

  1. Check steering wheel free play.
    1. Stop the vehicle and face the tires straight ahead.
    2. Rock the steering wheel gently up and down with a finger lightly, check the steering wheel free play.
      1. Maximum free play: 30 mm (1.18 in.)
        2. Fig 1: Checking Steering Wheel Free Play
        G01148578Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
  2. Check steering effort.
    1. Center the steering wheel.
    2. Remove the steering wheel pad. See step  3 under REMOVAL.
    3. Start the engine and run it at idle.
    4. Measure the steering effort in both directions.
      1. Steering effort (Reference): 6.9 N.m (70 kgf.cm, 61 in.lbf)
      Fig 2: Measuring Steering Effort In Both Directions
      G01148579Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
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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.