And the most ironic thing is that I was the first to shed light on this problem a couple of days after registration.

The rod needs zero tension + slop. The 'slop setting requires common sense, the point just before it rattles around in its seat. A quick and good test for positive verification: loosen it enough so that it rattles around (it cannot fall out)test drive the car. If the problem is solved, play with the rod adjustment. If the problem isn't solved, start barking up another tree.