Over time, play can develop between the steering gear and pinion, which is felt as rattle or imprecise steering. This play can be eliminated by tightening the steering gear pinion preload collar.

The adjustment is found on the steering gear at the steering shaft coupling point. There is usually a plastic lockring or nut that presses the steering gear against the pinion.

Not necessarily completely, but space is tight. Option 1: Disconnect the steering gear from its brackets and steering shaft, but leave the power steering hoses connected. Lower the gear downward and rotate it so you can access the adjustment plastic with, for example, angle-nosed pliers. Option 2: Remove the gear completely, which makes adjustment easier and also allows for a simultaneous power steering oil change.

Steering adjusted too tight is dangerous because it does not return properly and wears quickly. Adjustment: Turn the adjustment nut carefully tighter (usually only a small "creak" or partial turn is needed). Testing (if the gear is disconnected): Turn the steering gear to either extreme position. Rotate the steering shaft stub with your finger. Tighten until you feel resistance increasing, then loosen just enough that the shaft spins freely again. Warning: If the steering feels stiff or does not return by itself after turning, you have tightened too much.

If you opened the hoses and fluid spilled out, the system must be bled: Fill the power steering reservoir completely with ATF oil. Start the engine. Be ready to add oil immediately as the pump will drain the reservoir quickly. Turn the steering slowly from lock to lock with the engine running. Preferably with the front wheels off the ground so mechanical load is minimal. Continue until vibration and noise stop. Complete bleeding can take up to 100 km of driving; turn the wheel gently to avoid vibration.

If you do the work yourself, the only cost is usually one litre of fresh power steering oil (ATF).

Step Notes Tool Angle-nosed pliers or suitable socket Tightening amount Very small increments Oil ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) Risks Over-tightening prevents steering return