What allows the steering wheel to control the direction of the vehicle?

The steering linkage is the critical component that enables the steering wheel to control the direction of the vehicle. When the driver turns the steering wheel, the motion is transferred through the steering linkage system, which typically consists of joints, rods, and gears that translate the wheel's rotation into the movement of the vehicle's wheels. This mechanism ensures that the front wheels pivot left or right, allowing for steering control and direction adjustments.

In contrast, the drive shaft is responsible for transmitting power from the engine to the wheels, meaning it plays no direct role in steering. The chassis serves as the main framework of the vehicle, providing support for all other components, but it does not directly affect steering. The axle is involved in supporting the wheels and allowing them to rotate, but it does not control the steering mechanism. Therefore, the steering linkage is the vital system that connects the driver's input at the steering wheel to the vehicle's ability to change direction.