Virginia State Inspection Practice Test

For a vehicle with a power steering system, what is the maximum acceptable steering wheel lash for a 19-inch diameter wheel?

1. 2 1/2 inches

2. 2 inches

3. 2 3/4 inches

4. 2 1/4 inches

The correct answer is: 2 1/2 inches

For a vehicle with a power steering system, the maximum acceptable steering wheel lash for a 19-inch diameter wheel is indeed 2 1/2 inches. Steering wheel lash is the amount of play or free movement in the steering wheel before the wheels actually start turning. This measurement is important for ensuring proper vehicle handling and safety. The industry standard, which applies to a variety of vehicles, specifies that the steering wheel lash should be within certain limits to provide a good balance between responsiveness and comfort. A lash measurement of 2 1/2 inches indicates that there is an acceptable level of free play in the steering wheel, which ensures that the driver has adequate control over steering input without excessive movement. In practical terms, if the lash were greater than the acceptable limit, it could lead to reduced steering precision, making the vehicle harder to control. If it were less than that, the steering could feel too tight or sensitive, which might also compromise ease of operation. Thus, maintaining the specified lash is crucial for both performance and safety on the road.