This thread serves to simply document my process and results of adjusting the rack and pinion adjustment screw on my 2001 MDX. My symptoms are a loose steering wheel and an intermittent slight shimmy of the steering wheel (left to right) at highway speeds. I also feel a dead spot when turning. For normal local driving its fine, but I can tell its loose. I used the procedure from the SM attached at the bottom:



Here are the tools I used:


Tools used

I removed the driver side tire for easier access. Without removing anything else you can access the adjustment screw and lock nut:


side view of locknut

Prior to loosening the locknut I sprayed it down with PB Blaster then again a week later (the MDX was stationary). However, due to the many oil leaks I think the locknut was not rusted. The locknut easily loosened. I followed the attached procedure. Here are the removed guide screw and locknut:


Guide screw and locknut

Here is a pic of the rack adjustment screw area without the screw:


guide screw removed

I buttoned it up per the procedure and will test drive it tomorrow. I'll report back then.

I would buy the special tool. It cost about $30 (includes shipping) at most on-line Honda parts sources. If you don't already have a 40mm wrench, I suppose its worth trying, but there is very little room and I don't think a normal 40mm wrench or adjustable wrench would fit.....and if it did, I don't think you would have enough room to rotate the nut. I hope this helps someone.

Update: I took my MDX for a drive today....and its actually a little worse. The dead spot is still there (and maybe even more pronounced) the wheels don't straighten automatically all the way when coming out of a turn. When coming out of a turn, I have to turn the wheel back to straight for the last 1/2 wheel turn. So I think I tightened it a bit too much and I conclude an adjustment is not going to fix the slop. I'm guessing I just need a new rack.

For what its worth the procedure is pretty easy though a bit frustrating working in the tight space. That concludes this thread. Good luck.

Replace the steering rack assembly. The adjustment is not intended to correct wear.

I think you are right. I will update this thread if/when I replace the rack. Thanks Dundkov.