Land Rover Defender: Steering and Wheel Alignment

Vehicles with steering wheel angles within +/-3 degrees to the horizontal as shown in illustration E257061 should not be adjusted as they meet Jaguar Land Rover specifications.

NOTE: Dependent on specification the relationship between the steering wheel control switches / paddle shifts / steering wheel upper spoke profile and the column wiper / indicator stalks should be used for this assessment.

Road Test - Route Design and Consistency

Steering and wheel alignment is dependant on a consistent and repeatable methodology; this is equally important when road testing the vehicle. The same test route must be used every time a road test is completed, using a consistent method for determining if an actual problem exists.

NOTE: When a suitable route has been designed, make sure anyone that is likely to be road testing for steering /wheel alignment issues is aware of the approved test route.

Suitable Roads for Test Route

When road testing for a potential steering and wheel alignment issues, use the same road every time. A suitable test route should have the following features:

• Roads with little or no camber for the length of the test section.
• Roads which are straight and allow upwards of 40mph (64km/h) speeds.
• Roads which are flat and level.
• Roads with smooth surfaces.
• Roads which are free from excessive traffic.

Unsuitable Roads for Test Route

Avoid roads with the following features:

• Heavily cambered roads.
• Roads with bends or deviations.
• Roads with inclines or declines.
• Roads with poor surfaces.
• Roads which are crowded.

PINPOINT TEST

NOTE: Pinpoint Test A will guide the retailer through correctly diagnosing and rectifying steering wheel misalignment, vehicle pulling and vehicle drifting, when driving in a straight line without the brake applied.

The pinpoint test should be completed until the customer symptom is rectified.

PINPOINT TEST A : STEERING WHEEL MISALIGNED / VEHICLE PULL / DRIFT

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