Steering System: Repair

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 Lexus SC 430. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

CORRECT STEERING OFF CENTER
1. Check whether the steering wheel is off-center.
  1. Apply masking tape to the top center of the steering wheel and the upper steering column cover.
  2. Drive the vehicle in a straight line for 100 meters at a constant speed of 56 km/h (35 mph), holding the steering wheel to maintain the course.
    
    Fig 1: Identifying Masking Tape On Top Center Of Steering Wheel And Steering Column Upper Cover
    Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
  3. Draw a line on the masking tape, as shown in the illustration.
    
    Fig 2: Identifying Masking Tape On Top Center Of Steering And Marked Line
    Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
  4. Turn the steering wheel to the center position.
    HINT:
    
    Look at the upper surface of the steering wheel, the steering spokes and the SRS airbag line to determine the center position.
  5. Draw another line on the masking tape on the steering wheel, as shown in the illustration
  6. Measure the distance between the 2 lines on the masking tape on the steering wheel.
  7. Convert the measured distance to the steering angle.
    
    Fig 3: Measuring Distance Between 2 Lines On Masking Tape
    Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
    
    HINT:
    - Measured distance of 1 mm (0.04 in.) = Approximately 1 degree steering angle.
    - Make a note of the steering angle.
2. Adjust the steering angle.
3. For the following 2 steps, carry out the RH and LH procedures separately.
  1. Draw a line on the tie rod and rack end where it can easily be seen.
  2. Using a paper gauge, measure the distance between the tie rod end and the rack end screw.
    
    Fig 4: Identifying Marked Line On Tie Rod And Rack Ends
    Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
  3. Remove the RH and LH boot clips from the rack boots.
  4. Loosen the RH and LH lock nuts.
  5. Turn the RH and LH rack ends by the same amount (but in opposite directions) in accordance with the steering angle.
    
    Fig 5: Locating Rack Boot Clips
    Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
    
    HINT:
    
    Electronic power steering: 1 turn (360°) of rack end (1.5 mm (0.059 in.) horizontal movement) -13° of steering angle.
  6. Tighten the RH and LH lock nuts.
    Torque: 56 N*m (570 kgf*cm, 41 ft.*lbf)
    
    NOTE: Make sure that the difference in length between the RH and LH tie rod ends and rack end screws is less than 1.5 mm (0.059 in.).
  7. Install the RH and LH boot clips.