Steering

Steering Gear And Linkage Inspection

~1min read
0102030405032N·mlb·ft
Tightening torque found on this page
Steering Rack Inspection

1. Inspect for cracking, damage, and tooth wear.

  • If there is any malfunction, replace the steering rack.

2. Measure the steering rack warp.


  • If it exceeds the maximum specification, replace the steering rack.

    Steering rack runout
  • Large diameter portion (near point A): 0.15 mm {0.006 in} max.

  • Small diameter portion (near point B): 0.20 mm {0.008 in} max.

Tie-rod End Inspection

1. Inspect the tie-rod end for damage and the boot for cracks.

  • If there is any malfunction, replace the tie-rod end.

2. Inspect for excessive play.

  • If there is any malfunction, replace the tie-rod end.

3. Rotate the ball joint 5 times

.

4. Install two nuts to the ball joint and measure the tie-rod end rotational torque using a torque wrench.


  • If not within the specification, replace the tie-rod end.

    Tie-rod end rotational torque
  • 0.5—3 N·m {5.1—30 kgf·cm, 4.5—26 in·lbf}

Tie rod Inspection

1. Inspect for bending and damage.

  • If there is any malfunction, replace the tie rod.

2. Inspect for excessive play.

  • If there is any malfunction, replace the tie rod.

3. Swing the ball joint 10 times

.

4. Measure the ball joint swing torque using a pull scale.


  • If it exceeds the specification, replace the tie rod.

    Tie rod swing torque
  • 0.4—4 N·m {4.1—40 kgf·cm, 3.6—35 in·lbf}

  • [Pull scale reading 0.6—29.3 N {0.06—2.98 kgf, 0.14—6.58 lbf}]

Test yourself

A quick Mazda 3 quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.