How important is it to repair worn-out idler arms?

This is a repair that can be done at home, but define "easily".

The idler arm(s) are, for the lack of a better term, a brace for some of the steering linkage. It is positioned such that it allows movement in only one orientation, and resists movement in another.

It is designed to allow the steering linkage to control the front wheels from right to left without allowing the linkage to move up or down.

When they wear out, up and down movement is possible, and will cause the "play" you feel in the wheel.

It isn't very safe to continue to drive in this condition. If you are always in control of your vehicle and the area around it, this merely results in having to "herd" you vehicle down the road.

But if someone invades your space, or if you are on roads where excess steering control is required (traffic, wet roads, etc.) it becomes quite dangerous for both you and those around you.

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RE:

How important is it to repair worn-out idler arms?

We have a '95 Chevy Astro Van that has idler arms that are completely worn out. Can someone please explain what idler arms do? I have to admit that the steering has a lot of "play" and that I'm probably lucky I haven't been pulled over for drunk driving. How severe is this...

What Is An Idler Arm

My 2002 Chevrolet astro has been making the clunking noise when going over bumps for a few years now.. But lately with wind gusts it feels like im about to go in the ditch . I just brought it in and they told me I have bad idler arms.. Its been quite sometime since I've been relaxed while driving my van on the highway.. Cant wait to finally get it fixed!

Define Idler

the idler arm is a critical steering componet it basically a stabilizer for long steering componets this should not be put off replace it asap.in a emergency situation this could case a major accident .be safe drive it only in a have to case like to go get it replaced or get the part and do it yourself .your flirting with diasaster.