On-Vehicle Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Toyota Camry. 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 by your hand, check the steering wheel freeplay.
  Maximum freeplay: 30 mm (1.18 in.)
  
  Fig 1: Identifying Steering Wheel Freeplay
  Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002