With the vehicle on the ground and the front wheels pointed straight ahead, rock the steering wheel gently back and forth to check for excessive freeplay. Excessive freeplay may indicate worn front wheel bearings, main shaft yoke, intermediate shaft yoke, lower arm balljoint, steering system joint, or an out of adjustment or broken steering gear. Other symptoms such as excessive vehicle body movement over rough roads, swaying around corners, and binding when turning the steering wheel may indicate faulty steering or suspension components. Check the shock absorbers by pushing down and releasing the vehicle at each corner. If the vehicle does not come back to a level position within one or two bounces, the shocks/struts are worn and need to be replaced. Listen for squeaks and noises from the suspension components while bouncing the vehicle. Raise the vehicle with a floor jack and support it securely on jackstands. Check the tires for irregular wear patterns and proper inflation. Inspect the universal joint between the steering shaft and the steering gear housing for any damage or lubricant leakage. Check the steering linkage, tie-rod ends, and all suspension and steering components for looseness, damage, loose bolts, broken or disconnected parts, and deteriorated rubber bushings. Check the steering components for free movement, chafing, and binding while an assistant turns the steering wheel from side to side. Check the balljoints by attempting to move each lower arm up and down with a prybar to ensure there is no play. Replace any balljoint with play. Inspect the balljoint boots for damage and leaking grease. Replace the balljoints if they are damaged. Lastly, inspect the CV boots for tears, cracks, and loose clamps. Replace any boots with evidence of cracks or leaking lubricant.
