2. Visually inspect the ball joint dust caps and steering gear boots for cracks, abrasions, or contamination (photo). Any wear on these components will result in loss of lubrication and rapid contamination of the ball joints or steering gear.
3. Grasp the wheel from the top and bottom and try to pump it (see photo). There may be a little play, but if it is large, further investigation is necessary. Continue pumping the wheel while an assistant presses the brake pedal. If the play is now eliminated or reduced, then the hub bearings are faulty. If there is still play, then there is wear in the suspension joints.
4. Now grab the wheel by the sides and try to rock it as before. Any movement can be caused by worn hub bearings or tie rod ball joints. If the inner or outer ball joint is worn, movement will be noticeable.
5. Using a large screwdriver or flat bar, check the suspension for wear on the upper bushings by lifting the suspension components. There should be some movement since the bushings are made of rubber, but excessive wear should be obvious. Also check the condition of all visible rubber bushings.
6. With the vehicle on its wheels, have an assistant turn the steering wheel back and forth one-eighth of a turn. There should be a small amount of play between the steering wheel and the wheels. If this is not the case, inspect the joints and bushings as described earlier, and also check the universal joints of the steering column and the steering gear for wear.
[Source of the article web resource: SkodaBook.ru]