Audi 80 Quiz
Suspension and Steering

Checking Steering Play

In this manual: Suspension and Steering
Technical Description — 39Engines — 41Exhaust System — 13Cooling System — 28Fuel tank and fuel pump — 12Air Filter and Intake Ducts — 13Mono-Motronic Injection System — 18Digifant Injection System — 19KE-III-Jetronic Injection System — 35MPI and MPFI Injection Systems — 32Clutch — 11Transmission and Driveline — 21Suspension and Steering — 33Brake System — 41Anti-lock brake system — 8Wheels and Tires — 13Body Electrical System — 35Ignition System — 24Lighting — 14Signaling Devices — 7Instruments and Auxiliary Equipment — 54Heating and Ventilation — 7Body Components — 18Troubleshooting — 6Specifications — 13
~1min read

PROCEDURE

Lower the left side window. Apply the parking brake and start the engine.

Reach outside through the window and turn the steering wheel briefly left and right.

Does the left wheel turn from the straight-ahead position immediately after you turn the steering wheel? Watch the rim, because the elastic tire may absorb part of the movement.

Causes of Steering Play
Play in the steering system may be caused by the following:

Steering gear rack. Play occurring here may possibly be eliminated by adjustment.

Worn tie rod ends or rubber-metal mounts on the steering gear.

Defective joints on the collapsible energy-absorbing steering column.

Faulty flexible disc coupling between the steering gear and the steering column.

Test yourself

A quick Audi 80 quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.