What happens to the steering feel when a vehicle has excessive play in the steering gear?

When excessive play is present in the steering gear, it results in a vague and less responsive steering feel. This condition occurs because the play creates a disconnect between the driver's input on the steering wheel and the actual movement of the wheels. As a result, the driver may notice a lack of precision when making turns or steering corrections, leading to increased difficulty in maintaining control of the vehicle. The steering may require more movement before the vehicle responds, which can compromise handling and safety. This loss of responsiveness is particularly concerning as it can affect the vehicle's ability to navigate turns effectively and can lead to delayed reactions in critical driving situations.