Unstable steering

Welcome to 2CarPros.

Most likely, you have worn steering components. Things such as worn tie rods, ball joints, a sector shaft, drag link and so on cause excessive play in the steering. These components can break and cause a loss of steering, so it needs checked.

If you can, lift one side of the front end at a time. Safely support it. Place your hands at 3 and 9 o'clock and see if you can wiggle the wheel back and forth. If you can, have a helper do the same thing as you watch under the vehicle for loose components. Do the same by placing your hands at 6 and 12 o'clock.

If you look at pic 1, I highlighted the sector shaft and the drag link joints. Check them for play. Pic 2 shows the idler arm and a tie rod. Note that there are tie rods on both sides of the vehicle. All need checked.

If everything is tight, confirm the power steering gear is tight. Pic 3 shows the gear. Make sure the bolts are tight.

Here is a link that shows in general how a tie rod is replaced. I'm adding it to help you visualize the part so you can find it easier.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/tie-rod-end-replacement

If everything is tight and there is no play in the wheel indicating a bearing problem, then suspect the steering gear is worn.

Let me know if you have questions or need help.

Take care,
Joe