You may notice excessive lash or free play which may indicate a defect in?

Excessive lash or free play in a vehicle typically indicates a defect in the steering system. In the context of steering, lash refers to the amount of movement in the steering wheel before the wheels begin to turn. If there is excessive play in the steering, it can lead to poor handling, difficulty in maneuvering, and potential loss of vehicle control. This situation can arise from worn out parts, such as ball joints, tie rods, or steering gear components.

In contrast, while brakes, suspension, and transmission systems have interrelated functions and can also exhibit signs of wear or defects, they do not specifically present symptoms in the form of steering lash. Brakes primarily show issues through responsiveness and effectiveness, suspension defects might lead to a rough ride or poor handling under load, and transmission problems often manifest through shifting difficulties or unusual noises. Therefore, identifying excessive lash points directly to the steering mechanism being at fault.