Unit Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2016 Subaru Outback and 2016 Subaru Legacy. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Check the following items, and if there is anything out of standard value, it is considered to be damaged. If so, replace it with a new part.

Measure the whole length of the column assembly - steering.
Standard: Overall length L

Tilt (measure at the neutral position) and telescopic column (measure at the longest position) 857.1 ^+1.5 _-1.5 mm (33.74 ^+0.059 _-0.059 in)

Fig 1: Measuring Whole Length Of Steering Column Assembly
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Check the steering wheel deflection in axial and vertical directions.
Specification:

Axial deflection A (deflection of steering wheel)

Less than 6 mm (0.24 in)

Vertical deflection L (runout of steering wheel)

Less than 17 mm (0.68 in)

Fig 2: Checking Steering Wheel Deflection In Axial And Vertical Directions
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.