Steering wheel wobble

LEOVOMENDEZ

MEMBER
1998 TOYOTA COROLLA
1.7L
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
200,000 MILES

The steering wheel on the car wobbles quite a bit. Both at low speeds and high speeds. Doesn’t necessarily vibrate. But it’s more of a smooth but very noticeable wobble. You can hear the wheel wobble from the inside. Lifted the car and there’s quite some play when you grab the wheel at 3 and 9. Absolutely no play at the 12 and 6 position. From what I have read it is the tie rod. Is that the issue? There is also play on the passenger wheel. But not as much and there is definitely no noticeable wobble.

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,885 POSTS

Hi,

Based on your description, it does sound like a tie rod issue. However, there is an inner and outer tie rod on each side, so you will need a helper to determine where the play is coming from.

If you look below, I attached a pic and highlighted the tie rod locations. The outer are at the end and connect to the steering knuckle. The inner go into the rubber boots on the rack and pinion.

If you determine which is bad, here is a link that you may find helpful. It explains in general how the procedure is done. Note: After replacement, the vehicle will need an alignment.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/tie-rod-end-replacement
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I hope this helps. Let me know if you have other questions.

Take care and God Bless,

Joe

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