Visually inspect the steering gear housing for cracks and damage. If the steering gear housing is cracked or damaged, install a new steering gear. REFER to: Steering Gear (211-02 Power Steering, Removal and Installation).
TIE-RODS
Using a straight edge and feeler gauge, check the tie-rods to see if they are straight. If the distance between the tie-rod and straight edge is greater than 0.5 mm, install a new steering gear. REFER to: Steering Gear (211-02 Power Steering, Removal and Installation).
Check the tightening torque of the tie-rod end to wheel knuckle nut. REFER to: Tie Rod End (211-03 Steering Linkage, Removal and Installation).
Check the tightening torque of the tie-rod end locking nut. REFER to: Tie Rod End (211-03 Steering Linkage, Removal and Installation).
CHECK THE STEERING GEAR BOOTS
Raise and support the vehicle. REFER to: Jacking and Lifting (100-02 Jacking and Lifting, Description and Operation).
Visually inspect the steering gear boot(s) for splits, damage and correct fitment. If the steering gear boot(s) is split, damaged or incorrectly fitted, install a new steering gear boot(s) as necessary. REFER to: Steering Gear Boot (211-03 Steering Linkage, Removal and Installation).
CHECK FOR TURNING EFFORT TORQUE PEAKS IN THE STEERING GEAR
Lower and support the vehicle making sure that the road wheels are just clear of the floor.
With the ignition switch in position I (engine off), slowly turn the steering wheel from steering lock stop to steering lock stop.
Only continue to the step 4, if a turning effort torque peak or judder is felt while turning the steering wheel.
Detach the tie-rods from the wheel knuckles. Slowly turn the steering wheel from steering lock stop to steering lock stop.
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If no torque peak or judder can be felt now, investigate the front suspension for damage.
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If a turning effort torque peak or judder is felt while turning the steering wheel, install a new steering gear. REFER to: Steering Gear (211-02 Power Steering, Removal and Installation).