Hard Steering

Symptom Troubleshooting

1. Check the power assist.
Is the power assist more than 29 N (3.0 kgf, 6.6 lbs.)?
YES - Go to step 2.
NO - Power assist is OK.

2. Measure steady-state fluid pressure from the pump at idle with T/N 07406-0010001, or T/N 07406-001000A.
Is the pressure 1,500 kPa (15 kgf/cm2, 213 psi) or less?
YES - Go to step 3.
NO - Go to step 7.

3. Measure the pump relief pressure at idle with T/N 07406-0010001, or T/N 07406-001000A.
'01-03 models
Is the pressure 7,600 - 8,300 kPa (78 - 85 kgf/cm2, 1,110 - 1,210 psi) or less?
'04 model
Is the pressure 7,800 - 8,500 kPa (80 - 87 kgf/cm2, 1,140 - 1,240 psi) or less?
YES - Go to step 4.
NO - Faulty pump assembly.

4. With a spring scale, measure the power assist in both directions, to the left and to the right.
Are the two measurements within 2.9 N (0.3 kgf, 0.66 lbs.) of each other?
YES - Go to step 5.
NO - Go to step 8.

5. Measure the fluid pressure with both pressure gauge valves open (if so equipped), while turning the steering wheel fully to the left and fully to the right.
'01-03 models
Is the pressure 7,600 - 8,300 kPa (78 - 85 kgf/cm2, 1,110 - 1,210 psi) or less?
'04 model
Is the pressure 7,800 - 8,500 kPa (80 - 87 kgf/cm2, 1,140 - 1,240 psi) or less?
YES - Go to step 6.
NO - Faulty gearbox.

6. Adjust the rack guide, and retest.
Is the steering OK?
YES - Repair is completed.
NO - Faulty gearboxes

7. Check for feed and return lines between the pump and the gearbox for clogging and deformation.
Are the lines clogged or deformed?
YES - Repair or replace the lines.
NO - Faulty valve body unit.

8. Check the cylinder lines for deformation.
Are the lines deformed?
YES - Replace the lines.
NO - Go to step 9.

9. Check for a bent rack shaft or misadjusted rack guide (too tight).
Is the rack shaft bent or the rack guide adjusted too tight?
YES - Replace the rack shaft or readjust the rack guide.
NO - Faulty valve body unit.