On-Vehicle Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Toyota Tundra. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

CHECK STEERING WHEEL FREE PLAY
1. Stop the vehicle and face the tires straight ahead.
2. Gently turn the steering wheel to the right and left with a finger, and check the steering wheel free play.
  Maximum free play: 30 mm (1.18 in.)
  
  Fig 1: Checking Steering Wheel Free Play
  Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
CHECK STEERING EFFORT
1. Center the steering wheel.
2. Remove the steering wheel pad (see REMOVAL ).
3. Start the engine and idle it.
4. Measure the steering effort in both directions.
  Steering effort (Reference): 4.9 N*m (50 kgf*cm, 43 in.*lbf)
  
  HINT:
  
  Check the tire type, pressure and contact surface before making your diagnosis.
  
  Fig 2: Checking Steering Effort
  Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
5. Tighten the steering wheel set nut.
  Torque: 50 N*m (510 kgf*cm, 37 ft.*lbf)
6. Install the steering wheel pad (see INSTALLATION ).