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[unclelicklug]

There seems to be a fair amount of play in my steering wheel with the car sat still and the engine off.
Not too noticeable when driving (although I wouldn't call the steering sharp) and no rattles or creaks - does this point to a worn steering box?
Can it be adjusted or will it need replacing - the MOT is looming...

Car is a facelift 2.2 TD Estate, about 70,000 miles.

Thanks for any pointers

Rick

[Auto Addict]

Sounds as if it might be wishbones / ball joints to me.

Jack up the front wheels and see if you have any play 12 o'clock to 6 o'clock and 9:45 to 3:15.

[Kevin Wood]

The steering boxes do feel like they're shot with the engine stopped. I think this is a feature of them, TBH. As long as it feels Ok with the engine running I wouldn't be too concerned.

Have a check under it for play in the wishbone bushes, ball joints and steering idler arm for peace of mind though.

Kevin

[old cruiser]

As has been said, they do have what appears to be excessive play in them when engine stopped as compared to a vehicle with a steering rack, play is even more evident if you turn your steering wheel off centre and also you may notice that with engine running at idle and the steering wheel off centre the play will also be evident, but at centre position and engine running the play should be minimal, this is normal for steering boxes of this recirculating ball type of which these are; however a worn steering idler can exaggerate the play somewhat so would be worth checking for excess lateral movement on that also.
Cheers Pete

[unclelicklug]

Many thanks for the replies - I'll get the MOT booked and see what the man says....