UK Car Repair: Vectra SriV6 Steering Rack play, advisory note, steering rack

Question
QUESTION: Hi, If I hold my nearside front wheel at the quarter to three position and wiggle it,  I can detect slight movement which results in a slight knock. There is no movement or knock at the six oclock position. There is also no play at the steering wheel that I can detect. Can you tell me if this is excessive wear in the steering rack which only a replacement would fix, or could it be fixed with a new inner tie end, or could it be something else. Cheers.

ANSWER: You have to get someone to help you, they can move the wheel and you can look/feel where the movement is. It does not sound too worrisome.

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QUESTION: Hi, The car actually failed the M.O.T on this problem. I think the tester was being a bit strict and an advisory note would have sufficed. He doesn't seem to think there is any wear in the tie rod end. Is there a joint at the other end of the tie rod, going into the steering rack, that could be worn? Thanks.

Answer
Yes, there is an adjustment at the inner end but it may be hard to get to.  If not, turn the steering so that side is in the most accessible position,remove the runner bellows, and undo the lock washer then tie rod.  There will be shims inside it and you will have to remove them one at a time until the movement is reduced. "DO NOT make it to tight.   Good luck