Steering Wheel

Set the steering wheel in a straight-ahead position, and check the wheel spokes to make sure they are correctly set in their specified positions.
Lightly turn the steering wheel to the left and right to determine the point where front wheels start to move.
Measure the distance of the movement of steering wheel at the outer periphery of wheel.

Steering wheel free play: 0 - 17 mm (0 - 0.67 in)

Fig 1: Identifying Steering Wheel Free Play
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.

Move the steering wheel vertically toward the shaft to ascertain if there is play in the direction.

Maximum permissible play: 0.5 mm (0.020 in)
Drive the vehicle and check the following items during operation.
1. Steering force:
  The effort required for steering should be smooth and even at all points, and should not vary.
2. Pulled to one side:
  Steering wheel should not be pulled to either side while driving on a level surface.
3. Wheel runout:
  Steering wheel should not show any sign of runout.
4. Return factor:
  Steering wheel should return to its original position after it has been turned and then released.