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HOMESERVICE MANUALSTOYOTA2004MATRIX XR, FWD, STANDARDREPAIR AND DIAGNOSISEXTERNAL PAGESDIFFERENT CARSECTION 413 (STEERING SYSTEM)STEERING WHEELREPAIR PROCEDURES
2004 Toyota Matrix XR, FWD, Standard

Repair Procedures

2004 Toyota Matrix XR, FWD, StandardSECTION Repair Procedures
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Toyota Tundra. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
NOTE: This is the repair procedure for steering off center.
  1. Inspecting Steering Wheel Off Center 
    1. Apply masking tape on the top center of the steering wheel and steering column upper cover.
      Fig 1: Identifying Masking Tape Applications Points
      G01095225Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
    2. Drive the vehicle in a straight line for 100 meters at a constant speed of 35 mph (56 km/h), and hold the steering wheel to maintain the course.
    3. Draw a line on the masking tape as shown in Fig 2.
      Fig 2: Marking Applied Masking Tape
      G01095226Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
      4. NOTE: Refer to the upper surface of the steering wheel, steering spoke and SRS AIRBAG line for the straight position.
    4. Turn the steering wheel to its straight position.
    5. Draw a new line on the masking tape of the steering wheel as shown in Fig 3.
      Fig 3: Marking Angular Calculation Line
      G01095227Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
    6. Measure the distance between the 2 lines on the masking tape of the steering wheel.
      7. NOTE: Make a note of the steering angle.
    7. Convert the measured distance to steering angle.

      Measured distance 1 mm (0.04 in.) = Steering angle approximately 1 deg. 

  2. Adjusting Steering Angle 
    1. Lift up the vehicle.
      NOTE: The adjustment method for steering angle is different depending on the models. Check whether it is type A or B.
    2. Draw a line on the RH and LH tie rod and rack ends where it can easily be seen.
    3. Using a paper gauge, measure the distance from RH and LH tie rod ends to the rack end screws.
      NOTE:
      • Measure the RH side and LH side.
      • Make a note of the measured values.
    4. Remove the RH and LH boot clips from the rack boots.
      Fig 4: Identifying Boot Clips & Tie Rod End Lock Nuts
      G01095228Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
    5. Loosen the RH and LH lock nuts.
    6. Turn the RH and LH rack end by the same amount (but in different directions) according to the steering angle. One turn 360 deg. of rack end (1.5 mm (0.059 in.) horizontal movement) = 12 deg. of steering angle 
      7. NOTE: Make sure that the difference in length between RH and LH tie rod ends and rack end screws are within 1.5 mm (0.059 in.).
    7. Tighten the RH and LH lock nuts by the specified torque.
    8. Install the RH and LH boot clips.
RENDER: 1.0x

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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.