Steering is too loose, feels like its on ice or something. Tested down my road, when I turned the wheel back and forth the vehicle was slow to respond. It could not change direction quickly, felt like it was sliding almost. Im not sure how to check for tie rod or ball joint wear. Ive had it jacked up and wiggled a wheel but my steering wont lock so it just turns the wheels when I do that.
I know it needs an alignment because the drivers side wheel is toed out (but the other is ok) and the steering wheel is cocked to the right (about 1/8th turn) when traveling straight. However, it does not pull to either side, it tracks pretty straight on. [I know I could do the DIY alignment but I dont think that will solve the looseness, so I want to figure that out first, then align]
It probably was in a minor accident because there is light fender/bumper damage on the drivers side. Nothing is bent that I can see. What/how do I test to troubleshoot this? What needs to be replaced?
I know it needs an alignment because the drivers side wheel is toed out (but the other is ok) and the steering wheel is cocked to the right (about 1/8th turn) when traveling straight. However, it does not pull to either side, it tracks pretty straight on. [I know I could do the DIY alignment but I dont think that will solve the looseness, so I want to figure that out first, then align]
It probably was in a minor accident because there is light fender/bumper damage on the drivers side. Nothing is bent that I can see. What/how do I test to troubleshoot this? What needs to be replaced?