-Symptoms - Power Steering System

Symptoms - Power Steering System

Important: The following steps must be completed before using the symptom tables:

1. Determine if the vehicle is equipped with an electrically assisted variable effort system. Perform electrical diagnosis before proceeding with mechanical diagnosis. Refer to Diagnostic Starting Point - Variable Effort Steering. Diagnostic Starting Point - Variable Effort Steering
2. Review the system description and operation in order to familiarize yourself with the system functions. Refer to Power Steering System Description and Operation (w/o Electro-Hydraulic Steering).

Visual/Physical Inspection

* Inspect for aftermarket devices which could affect the operation of the power steering system.
* Inspect the easily accessible or visible system components for obvious damage or conditions which could cause the symptom.
* Inspect for leaking power steering components. If necessary, refer to Power Steering Fluid Leaks. Power Steering Fluid Leaks
* Verify the power steering reservoir for the proper operating specification. Refer to Checking and Adding Power Steering Fluid.
* Inspect the power steering fluid for the following indications of contamination:
^ Milky fluid - water
^ Brown fluid - burnt
^ Debris in fluid - plastic or dirt
* If necessary, flush the power steering system. Refer to Power Steering System Bleeding.

Symptoms List

Refer to a symptom diagnostic procedure from the following list in order to diagnose the symptom:

* Power Steering Fluid Leaks
* Rattle, Clunk, or Shudder Noise from the Power Steering System
* Whine or Growl Noise from the Power Steering System
* Steering Effort Hard or Too Easy in One or Both Directions