For 1990-2009 cars only
A steering wheel that is off center is not always the result of improper steering wheel alignment. One possible cause is tire lead due to worn or improperly manufactured tires. Lead is the vehicle deviation from a straight path on a level road without pressure on the steering wheel. Refer to Radial Tire Lead/Pull Correction in Tires and Wheels in order to determine if the vehicle has a tire lead problem. Before aligning the steering wheel the vehicle alignment must also be correct.
Before performing any adjustment affecting wheel alignment, perform the following inspections and adjustments in order to ensure correct alignment :
| • | Inspect the tires for the proper inflation and irregular tire wear. Refer to Tire Inflation Pressure Specifications in Maintenance and Lubrication and Tire Diagnosis - Irregular or Premature Wear in Tires and Wheels. |
| • | Inspect the steering gear for looseness at the frame. Refer to Fastener Tightening Specifications in Power Steering System. |
| • | Inspect the steering wheel for excessive drag or poor return due to stiff or rusted linkage or suspension components. |
Perform the following steps in order to perform steering wheel alignment adjustment:
- Tires must be in the straight ahead position.
- It maybe necessary to have an assistant hold the steering so it does not rotate freely once the steering shaft is disconnected on a vehicle equipped with an SIR system.
- Disconnect the steering shaft from the gear. Refer to Intermediate Steering Shaft Replacement in Steering Wheel and Column.
- Rotate the intermediate shaft until the steering wheel is visually straight. If the steering wheel is out over a half turn check for other damage on the vehicle.
- Reconnect the intermediate shaft. Refer to Intermediate Steering Shaft Replacement in Steering Wheel and Column.
- Verify that the steering wheel is straight.
