Excessive Wheel Kickback or Loose Steering for Pontiac Grand Prix 1998

The power steering system contains air.

Bleed the power steering system. Refer to Power Steering System Bleeding .

The steering column joints are loose.

1. Inspect the steering column joints. Refer to Steering Shaft, Lower Bearing, Jacket- Disassemble (Floor Shift) or Steering Shaft, Lower Bearing, Jacket- Disassemble (Column Shift) in Steering Wheel and Column-Tilt.
2. Replace the steering column joints as needed. Refer to Steering Shaft, Lower Bearing, Jacket- Disassemble (Floor Shift) or Steering Shaft, Lower Bearing, Jacket- Disassemble (Column Shift) in Steering Wheel and Column-Tilt.

The rack bearings preload is misadjusted.

Tighten the rack bearings preload to specification.

Refer to Rack Bearing Preload Adjustment - Off Vehicle (Magnasteer) or Rack Bearing Preload Adjustment - Off Vehicle (Quiet Valve).

The steering gear mounting bolts are loose.

Replace the steering gear attachments as needed. Refer to Steering Gear Replacement .

The tie rod ends are loose.

Replace the tie rod ends as needed. Refer to Rack and Pinion Outer Tie Rod End Replacement .

The front wheel drive shaft bearings are worn.

Replace the front wheel drive shaft bearing. Refer to Front Wheel Drive Shaft Bearing Replacement in Front Suspension.