Hi everyone. Let me thank you even before I begin for all the answers you guys will be providing.I have a Mazda6 2004. I notice that the steering wheel has a little play. Its not huge and its felt more when I turn the steering wheel while the car is stationary. What could be the cause of this? I kind of sense that the play is right behind the wheel itself. That is, its not down the rod or anything. Can this be a simple fix?
what does it like to play? if it's patty-cake, i wouldn't worry too much. if its bloody knuckles, i would replace it with a more well-mannered wheel.
yes u can easy fix this by playing with your wheel after a while u will see that it has a difference or ajust the wheel with the button underneath it
There is a couple of problems that can lead to that problem. I am going to start from the easiest check, 1)Wheel Bearings loose or they might need to be re-greased, 2) Steering coupling worn out, 3) Collapsible shaft damaged. Good luck.
Steering Wheel Play The most common of all problems in a steering system is excessive steering wheel play. Steering wheel play is normally caused by worn ball sockets, worn idler arm, or too much clearance in the steering gearbox. Typically, you shou Id not be able to turn the steering wheel more than 1 1/ 2 inches without causing the front wheels to move. If the steering wheel rotates excessively, a serious steering problem exists. An effective way to check for play in the steering linkage or rack-and-pinion mechanism is by the dry-park test. With the full weight of the vehicle on the front wheels, have someone move the steering wheel from side to side while you examine the steering system for looseness. Start your inspection at the steering column shaft and work your way to the tie-rod ends. Ensure that the movement of one component causes an equal amount of movement of the adjoining component. Watch for ball studs that wiggle in their sockets. With a rack-and-pinion steering system, squeeze the rubber boots and feel the inner tie rod to detect wear. If the tie rod moves sideways in relation to the rack, the socket is worn and should be replaced. Another way of inspecting the steering system involves moving the steering components and front wheel BY HAND. With the steering wheel locked, raise the vehicle and place it on jack stands. Then force the front wheels right and left while checking for component looseness.
