On-Vehicle Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Lexus ES 330. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

CHECK STEERING WHEEL FREEPLAY
1. Stop the vehicle and face the tires straight ahead.
2. Rock the steering wheel gently up and down with your hand, check the steering wheel freeplay.
  Maximum freeplay: 30 mm (1.18 in.)
  
  Fig 1: Checking Steering Wheel Freeplay
  Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002