DEFINITION: Driver is unable to maintain consistent, predictable vehicle driving control in any direction.

Did you review the General Description and perform the necessary inspections?

Go to Step 2

Go to Symptoms - Suspension General Diagnosis

Verify that the directional stability is poor.

Does the system operate normally?

System OK

Go to Step 3

1. Ensure that the tires are all the same size, make, and adequate tread depth.
2. Repair as necessary.
3. Ensure that all of the tires are inflated to the correct pressure. Refer to Tire Inflation Pressure Specifications in Maintenance and Lubrication.

Does the vehicle still exhibit poor directional stability?

Go to Step 4

System OK

1. Inspect the stabilizer shaft, links, and insulators for wear or damage.
2. Replace as necessary. Refer to the following in Front Suspension:

•	Stabilizer Shaft Replacement

•	Stabilizer Shaft Link Replacement

•	Stabilizer Shaft Insulator Replacement

Does the vehicle still exhibit poor directional stability?

Go to Step 5

System OK

1. Inspect the lower control arms, ball joints and tie rods for wear or damage.
2. Repair as necessary. Refer to the following:

•	Lower Control Arm Replacement in Front Suspension

•	Rack and Pinion Outer Tie Rod End Replacement in Power Steering System

Does the vehicle still exhibit poor directional stability?

Go to Step 6

System OK

Inspect the wheel bearings/hubs for looseness or excessive lateral runout. Refer to Wheel Bearings Diagnosis .

Does the vehicle still exhibit poor directional stability?

Go to Step 7

System OK

1. Inspect the vehicle trim height. Refer to Trim Height Inspection .
2. Repair as necessary.

Does the vehicle still exhibit poor directional stability?

Go to Step 8

System OK

Inspect and adjust the wheel alignment as necessary. Refer to Wheel Alignment Measurement in Wheel Alignment.

Does the vehicle still exhibit poor directional stability?

Go to Step 9

System OK

1. Inspect the steering gear and steering column for looseness. Refer to Power Steering System Test in Power Steering System.
2. Repair as necessary.

Did you complete the repair?

Go to Step 10

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Operate the vehicle in order to verify the repair.

Did you correct the condition?

System OK

Go to Step 3