What should a technician check if a vehicle's steering wheel feels loose?

When a technician encounters a loose steering wheel, checking the tie rods and ball joints is essential. Both components are integral to the vehicle's steering system. Tie rods connect the steering gear to the wheels, translating the driver’s input into wheel movement. When tie rods wear out or become loose, they can result in play or sloppiness in the steering, making the wheel feel loose.

Ball joints also play a critical role by connecting the wheels to the suspension system, allowing for movement while maintaining alignment. Worn ball joints can lead to incorrect wheel positioning, which adversely affects steering response and stability.

By checking these components, the technician can identify any wear or damage that could be causing the loose steering feel, ensuring a thorough diagnosis and appropriate repairs. The other options, while related to vehicle maintenance, do not address the immediate concern of steering feel. Changing power steering fluid may be necessary for other steering complaints, inspecting the ABS system is aimed at braking issues, and adjusting the steering rack position may help with alignment but does not address wear in the tie rods or ball joints directly.