The steering stabilizer on your vehicle resembles a horizontally-mounted shock absorber. It is mounted to critical steering components, and is constantly working as the steering wheel is turned from left to right. The steering stabilizer dampens and smooths out the vibrations and oscillations which transmit from the road surface into the steering components. Without the steering stabilizer, the vehicle would feel as if the steering was loose or less stable, as the road vibrations would be more directly transmitted to the steering wheel.
Locate the steering stabilizer, which is mounted under the front of the vehicle. It is attached to the steering components and is mounted horizontally.
Inspect the steering stabilizer for any road damage, such as dents or other deformations of the outer case. Also look for signs of oil leakage from around the shaft. This indicates that the inner seal is faulty, and the unit should be replaced.
Instruct a friend to turn the steering wheel from left to right while you observe the movement of the steering stabilizer. Any deviation from a smooth back and forth action indicates damage to the shaft or mounting attachments of the stabilizer.
Remove the steering shaft mounting bolts by turning them counterclockwise with the wrench. Pull the steering stabilizer from its mounts and inspect it carefully. If the shaft moves in and out with little or no resistance the inner seals have failed and the unit must be replaced.
