Here's a breakdown of potential causes and how to approach them. This is not a comprehensive guide, and professional assistance is strongly recommended.
1. Identify the Type of Play:
* Loose Steering Wheel: The simplest cause. Check for excessive play in the steering wheel itself. This is often due to loose bolts connecting the wheel to the steering column. Tightening these bolts (after disconnecting the battery negative terminal for safety) may resolve the issue.
* Steering Column: Internal play within the steering column is more complex. This may involve worn bearings or shafts within the column, requiring disassembly, inspection, and likely replacement of parts.
* Steering Gearbox (Power Steering Box): This is a common culprit. Play here indicates wear in the gearbox's internal components. Repair usually requires rebuilding or replacing the entire power steering gearbox, a challenging job requiring specialized tools and knowledge.
* Tie Rod Ends: Worn tie rod ends allow excessive movement at the connection points between the steering linkage and the wheels. Excessive play can be felt by grabbing the tire and trying to move it side to side.
* Idler Arm (if applicable): On some models, an idler arm is part of the steering linkage. If this arm is worn, it can contribute to steering play.
* Suspension Components: Worn ball joints, control arm bushings, or other suspension components can indirectly cause steering play or give the sensation of play.
2. Diagnosis:
Before attempting any repairs, you'll need to diagnose the precise location of the play. This usually involves:
* Visual Inspection: Carefully inspect all steering components for signs of damage, wear, or looseness.
* Manual Check: Grab various parts of the steering system and attempt to move them. This will help you isolate where the looseness originates.
* Jacking and Testing: Safely jack up the front end of the car. With the wheels off the ground, you can more easily check for play in the tie rod ends and other steering components. Remember safety first – use jack stands and chocks.
3. Repair (Generally requires professional assistance):
* Loose Steering Wheel: Tighten the bolts. Again, disconnect the battery negative terminal first.
* Steering Gearbox/Tie Rod Ends/Idler Arm/Other Steering Linkage: Replacing or rebuilding these components usually requires specialized tools and knowledge of power steering systems. This is best left to a qualified mechanic. They will likely need to perform an alignment after this type of repair.
* Steering Column: Replacing or repairing the steering column is a very complex job and should be done by a professional.
* Suspension Components: If suspension components contribute, they need to be replaced. An alignment will be required after this type of repair.
Important Safety Note: Steering play is a serious safety concern. Driving with excessive steering play can lead to accidents. If you are unsure about diagnosing or repairing the problem, take your Caprice to a qualified mechanic immediately. Don't attempt repairs beyond your skill level. The cost of a professional repair is far less than the cost of an accident.
