On-Vehicle Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Toyota 4Runner. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

CHECK STEERING WHEEL FREEPLAY
1. Park the vehicle and face the tires straight ahead.
2. Rock the steering wheel gently up and down with your hand, check the steering wheel freeplay.
  
  Fig 1: Checking Steering Wheel Freeplay
  Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
  
  Maximum freeplay: 30 mm (1.18 in.)