There must be no mechanical damage to the steering components.
To check the free play of the steering wheel (steering play) we set the front wheels to a position corresponding to the straight-line movement of the car.
We attach a screwdriver with a long rod to the dashboard with tape so that its blade is directed towards the steering wheel. We turn the steering wheel until the wheels start to turn (the wheels must remain stationary) first in one direction, then in the other.
At the same time, at the moment the wheels begin to turn, we mark the boundaries of the free play of the steering wheel on its rim with chalk or thread.
By measuring the distance between the marks, we determine the free play of the steering wheel, which should not exceed 5° (corresponds to a distance between marks of 15 mm) provided that the steering mechanism, steering rods, front wheel hub bearings and telescopic struts are in good working order.
When turning the steering wheel sharply from side to side at a small angle, we make sure that there is no knocking in the steering mechanism. Otherwise, we tighten the loose fastenings of the steering elements or replace the faulty parts and units.
To assess the condition of the ball joints of the outer tie rod ends, an assistant is required. We hang up the front wheels and securely fix the car on factory-made stands.
The assistant, taking hold of the wheel, rocks it in a horizontal plane - several times, alternately, sharply pulling the rear part of the wheel towards himself, and the front part away from himself, and vice versa.
At the same time, having put my hand to it..
…to the body of the ball joint of the outer end of the steering rod and the steering knuckle arm, we evaluate their mutual movement.
If free play is felt in the ball joint, the outer tie rod end must be replaced.
It is also necessary to replace the outer tie rod end if the tie rod joint boot is torn.
We check the condition of the steering gear covers.
If the covers have lost elasticity, cracked or torn, they must be replaced.
To check the power steering on a stationary vehicle, turn the steered wheels to the extreme positions 1–2 times with the engine off and then with the engine running.
By comparing the forces applied to the steering wheel in both cases, one can draw a conclusion about the performance of the power steering (a properly functioning power steering system significantly reduces the force applied to the steering wheel when the engine is running).