When the car is on the ground
1. Stop the car and set the wheels straight. Move the steering wheel left and right. If the free play is too large, it means that the front wheel bearings, the steering column shaft joint, the intermediate shaft joint, the ball joints of the lower suspension arms or the steering joints are worn out.
2. If the vehicle body is subjected to excessive vibration when driving on a bad road, leans excessively when cornering, or the steering wheel sticks, this indicates that the steering and suspension components are faulty.
3. Check up shock-absorbers, having shaken the car up and down.
When the car is raised and the wheels are free
4. Raise the car and place it on supports.
5. Check tread wear and tire pressure.
22.6 Press down on the steering gear boot to check for cracks and leakage
6. Check up the universal joint between a shaft of a steering column and the steering mechanism. Check the steering cover for signs of leakage. Check covers and anthers. Check the tie rod ends for excessive free play. Check the tightness of the bolts, the condition of the bushings and the presence of damaged suspension elements (22.6).
7. Inspect the ball joint boot for damage or grease leakage. Replace covers if they are damaged.