lots of play in my steering...why

[wcpierson]

lately ive had a lot of play in my steering wheel and my car seems to always go a little left...i know it could be the alignment but i think its a little more serious than that...what could it be? I have a 1g fwd by the way if that makes any differenct

 

[Mikael]

Most likely a tie rod end.

Put the front end in the air and have a friend hold the wheel solid (if you have no friends, just lock the steering). Grab each hub(wheel off) and see if it'll steer back and forth a little. You should be able to see if its the inner or outer joints. Replace them and go get it aligned. If you plan on hanging on to the car, this is a good chance to check the other ball joints, and replace any or grease them as needed. Keep in mind the pulling one way or the other could also be air pressure. Make sure to check that.

Autozone usually has the cheapest ones.

It could be the steering rack, but not likely. Check the above first.

 

[wcpierson]

Most likely a tire rod end.

Put the front end in the air and have a friend hold the wheel solid (if you have no friends, just lock the steering). Grab each hub(wheel off) and see if it'll steer back and forth a little. You should be able to see if its the inner or outer joints. Replace them and go get it aligned. If you plan on hanging on to the car, this is a good chance to check the other ball joints, and replace any or grease them as needed. Keep in mind the pulling one way or the other could also be air pressure. Make sure to check that.

Autozone usually has the cheapest ones.

It could be the steering rack, but not likely. Check the above first.

thankyou...you were very helpful i appreciate it