Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
32 11... Notes on checking steering backlash on vehicles with rack-and-pinion steering
The force introduced via the track rod is divided into a horizontal force and a vertical force relieving the thrust member (1) against the spring (2).
The steering box is depressurized on account of no hydraulic assistance due to engine standstill and is thus not preloaded!
The play created in this way is incorrectly referred to as steering backlash.
3 = Rack
Solution
- Check the tie rod backlash only in loaded condition or in the design position.
- Checking with front axle raised:
- To evaluate the play of the steering gear, it is necessary to pressurize the steering gear via its servo system!
- The combustion engine must be running during hydraulically or electrically assisted steering for this purpose
Desired state
The steering must be backlash-free in all components!
NO RELATED
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.