Steering System Inspection

Check steering wheel for play and rattle, holding vehicle in straight forward condition on the ground.
Steering wheel play

"a": 0 - 30 mm (0 - 1.2 in.)

Fig 1: Checking Steering Wheel Play
Courtesy of SUZUKI OF AMERICA CORP.
Check universal joints of steering shaft for rattle and damage. If rattle or damage is found, replace defective part with a new one.
Check steering linkage for looseness and damage. Repair or replace defective part, if any.
Check bolts and nuts for tightness and retighten them as necessary. Repair or replace defective parts, if any.
Check boots of steering linkage for damage (leaks, detachment, tear, dent, etc.). If damage is found, replace it with new one.
If any dent is found on steering rack boots, correct it to original shape by turning steering wheel to the right or left as far as it stops and holding it for a few seconds.

Fig 2: Locating Steering System Components Connection
Courtesy of SUZUKI OF AMERICA CORP.
Check wheel alignment referring to FRONT WHEEL ALIGNMENT INSPECTION AND ADJUSTMENT .