99' gttdi steering play

[braderz]

the steering on my car seems to have quite a bit of play, about an inch (even with car off) and getting worse, just want to know, whats causing it, can i fix it myself, and what parts should i be looking for to find the problem. Im pretty capable when it comes to working on cars so am willing to do the work to fix it myself if its possible. car is hitting 108k, steering is otherwise fine. cheers

[burnt01]

could be a loose steering rack? but jack the car up and see if the wheel moves if you wiggle it back and forth/side to side,if it does checkif the movement shifts the rack. could be a worn ball joint if the rack doesnt move but the wheel does, also bearings cause play but you would feel it