PROCEDURE
INSPECT STEERING LINKAGE AND GEAR HOUSING
Check the steering wheel free play.
Check the steering linkage for looseness or damage.
Check that the tie rod ends do not have any play.
Check that the dust seals and boots are not damaged.
Check that the boot clamps are not loose.
Check that the steering gear housing is not damaged.
INSPECT BALL JOINTS AND DUST COVERS
Inspect the ball joints for excessive looseness.
Jack up the front of the vehicle and place wooden blocks with a height of 180 to 200 mm (7.09 to 7.87 in.) under the front tires.
Lower the vehicle until the front coil spring has about half its ordinary load. Place stands under the vehicle for safety.
Check that the front wheels are pointing straight ahead. Use wheel chocks on all 4 wheels.
Using a lever, pry up the end of the lower arm. Check the amount of play.
| Maximum ball joint vertical play |
|---|
| 0 mm (0 in.) |
If there is any play, replace the ball joint.
Check the dust cover for damage.
INSPECT DRIVE SHAFT BOOTS
Check the drive shaft boots for loose clamps, cracks, grease leaks, kinks or damage.
INSPECT AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE
Visually check the transaxle for fluid leaks. If fluid is leaking, find the cause and repair it.
INSPECT AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE FLUID COOLER HOSE AND CONNECTIONS
Check the automatic transaxle fluid cooler hoses (oil cooler hoses) for cracks, leakage, loose connections and deformation.
INSPECT TRANSFER (for AWD)
Visually check the transfer for oil leaks. If oil is leaking, find the cause and repair it.
INSPECT DIFFERENTIAL (for AWD)
Visually check the rear differential for oil leaks. If oil is leaking, find the cause and repair it.
INSPECT FRONT AND REAR SUSPENSION
Check the front and rear suspension.
for Front Suspension: Click here
for Rear Suspension: Click here
TIGHTEN PROPELLER SHAFT BOLT
Tighten the propeller shaft bolts.