my Skoda Octavia's steering feels loose, what's wrong

Solution

1. Preparation

• Gather all necessary tools and parts.
• Park the vehicle on a flat surface and engage the parking brake.
• Disconnect the battery to ensure safety while working on electrical components.

2. Inspect and Tighten Steering Components

• Sub-steps:
  1. Raise the front of the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
  2. Remove the front wheels to gain access to the steering components.
  3. Inspect the tie rods and steering rack for play; tighten any loose fittings as required.
  4. Replace any worn tie rods or steering rack components if necessary.

3. Check and Replace Suspension Components

• Sub-steps:
  1. Inspect the ball joints and control arms for wear; look for cracks or deformation.
  2. Use a ball joint puller to remove and replace any worn ball joints.
  3. Reassemble control arms and tighten to manufacturer specifications (consult the service manual for torque values).

4. Wheel Alignment and Tire Inspection

• Sub-steps:
  1. Check tire pressures and inflate to recommended levels.
  2. Inspect tires for uneven wear and replace if necessary.
  3. Take the vehicle to a professional alignment shop for proper wheel alignment.