ASE G1 Auto Maintenance and Light RepairSuspension and SteeringEasy
A technician is inspecting a vehicle's front suspension. They notice excessive play when manipulating the wheel at the 12 and 6 o'clock positions. The most likely cause of this condition is:
- AWorn ball joints.
- BA loose steering gear.
- CWorn wheel bearings.
- DWorn tie rod ends.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Worn wheel bearings.
Excessive play at the 12 and 6 o'clock positions, indicating vertical movement, is a classic symptom of worn wheel bearings. Tie rod ends, steering gear, or ball joints primarily affect horizontal (3 and 9 o'clock) or rotational movement.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Worn ball joints can cause vertical play, but wheel bearings are a more direct cause for play felt at 12 and 6 o'clock with the wheel mounted.
- B. A loose steering gear would cause play in the steering wheel, not directly at the wheel hub.
- D. Worn tie rod ends typically cause play at the 3 and 9 o'clock positions.
Wheel Bearing Play Diagnosis
Worn wheel bearings often manifest as excessive play when the wheel is rocked vertically (12 and 6 o'clock positions).
- Indicates looseness in the wheel hub assembly.
- Can lead to noise, vibration, and uneven tire wear.
- Requires replacement of the affected wheel bearing(s).
Memory trick: Clock hands tell the bearing's tale.