Steering Wander - '02

[avconsult]

I have noticed an increasing amount of steering wander--requires constant correction-- and discovered a fair amount of movement at the steering rack where it mounts to the sub-frame. The rack is mounted on the drivers and passenger side via a rubber insert and metal sleeve bolted up to a bracket on the frame.

It's hard to know whether this is the source of the wander without comparing rack movement to another Highlander of same vintage.

you can spot the movement with a flashlight looking into the wheel well while someone is turning the steering wheel back and forth. Can someone(s) look at theirs and report back?

Ball joints, inner and outer tie rod ends and ball joints are snug--no play. The lower control arm bushing look intact as well. Steering rack itself is quiet--no knocking noises and normal assist.

[hl]

I have an 02 with 50,000 miles. I haven't noticed this on mine. It's a 4 cylinder, but I assume the steering may be the same. How many miles is on yours and do you know if any hard "slams" have been adsorbed by the front suspension ?