Steering Clunk:

The problem

A front-end clunking may be due to the preload on the rack being set incorrectly at the factory, causing the steering wheel assembly to wear out prematurely - indication is clunking with fluid loss.

A slight noise is normal as the rack is supposed to shift in its bushings when you turn the wheel at idle - the longitudinal load is around 1,500lbs. Of course the wheel should only be turned with the car moving where possible.

Other clunking noise can be from:
- Anti-roll bar linkages loose or worn (ball joints, replace)
- Anti-roll bar binding in the bushings (need lubrication)

The Solution

A warranty TSB exists which involves adjusting the steering lash preload. Most cars should have had this done by now.

Steering Rack Mounting Bushings & Handling/Feel

The steering rack is located in the vehicle by two large steering rack bushings, when worn they allow excessive movement in the rack.

The two bushings when worn are visibly so, and easily checked. Trussville Mazda, www.trussvillemazda.com are discount suppliers.

Note that tie-rods, tie-rod-ends & ball-joints are not a particular wear issue on these cars, unlike 3-series BMWs where they are a 60k mile item.

It is worth replacing power steering fluid regularly, every 2 years since it can overheat and so lose lubrication & protection properties for the steering rack. Redline D4ATF is an appropriate Full-Synthetic fluid. Replacement procedure is syphon the old fluid out of the reservoir, pour in the fresh, drive the car for a few days and repeat until the old fluid has been diluted.

Last Upload: 31st January, 2002. V1.50a
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