Steering malfunctions, their causes and solutions (Kalina 1118)

Cause of malfunction	Method of elimination
Increased steering wheel free play
Loosening the nuts securing the ball joints of the steering rods Increased clearance in the ball joints of the steering rods Wear of silent blocks (rubber-metal hinges) steering rods Increased clearance between steering rack stop and nut	Check for the presence of the cotter pin, tighten the nuts and cotter pin them Replace the tie rod ends Replace the silent blocks (rubber-metal hinges) or steering rods Replace worn parts and adjust the steering gear
Noise (knocking) in the steering
Loosening the nuts of the ball joints of the steering rods Increased clearance between steering rack stop and nut Loosening of the steering gear mount	Check and tighten the steering rod ball joint nuts Replace worn parts, adjust steering gear Tighten the steering gear mounting nuts
Steering wheel is hard to turn
Damage to the upper support bearing of the front suspension steering column Damage to the support bushing or steering rack stop Low tire pressure in front wheels Damage to parts of ball joints of steering rods Damage to parts of the front suspension telescopic strut The upper steering column shaft bearings are damaged The electric power steering is faulty	Replace the bearing or steering column support assembly Replace damaged parts, add grease Set the tire pressure to normal Replace damaged steering rod ball joint components Replace or repair the front suspension telescopic strut Replace the upper steering column shaft bearings Replace the electric power steering assembly with the shaft