Mazda 3 Service Manual: Steering Wheel And Column Inspection

Play Inspection

1. With the wheels in the straight-ahead position, start the engine.

2. Turn the steering wheel to the left and right gently, then verify that the steering wheel play is within the specification.

Steering wheel play

• 0—30 mm {0—1.18 in} (When hydraulic operating)

Looseness, Excessive Play Inspection

1. Inspect the steering wheel for looseness or excessive play in the axial direction of the shaft and four locations around the steering wheel.

• If there is any malfunction, inspect the following, and repair or replace the applicable part.

• Column bearing wear

• Looseness of the steering wheel installation part

• Looseness of the column installation area

• Excessive play of the steering shaft joint

• Excessive play of the steering gear

Steering Force Inspection

1. Verify that the equipped tire size and tire air pressure is as specified.

2. With the vehicle on a hard, level surface, put the wheels in the straight-ahead position.

WARNING:

• Handling the air bag module improperly can accidentally operate (deploy) the air bag module, which may seriously injure you. Read the service warnings before handling the air bag module..

3. Remove the air bag module..

4. Start the engine and idle it.

5. Verify that the EHPAS warning light does not illuminate.

6. Inspect the steering force using a torque wrench.

• If not within the specification, verify the following:

• No air in steering system

• No fluid leakage at hose or connectors

• Function of oil pump and steering gear

Steering wheel force (reference value)

• 7.8 N·m {80 kgf·cm, 69 in·lbf} or less

NOTE:

• Comparing another vehicle of the same model under the same conditions is an acceptable inspection method.

• The steering force varies with conditions indicated below.

• Road conditions: Such as dry, wet, asphalt, or concrete

• Tire condition: such as brand, wear, and tire pressure