Initial Inspection and Diagnostic Overview

Special Tool(s)

Inspection and Verification

CAUTION: Do not hold the steering wheel at the stops for an extended amount of time. Damage to the power steering pump can result.

NOTE: Make the following preliminary checks before repairing the steering system:

1. Verify the customer concern by operating the steering system.





2. Visually inspect for obvious signs of mechanical and electrical damage.
^ Check the tire pressure. For additional information, refer to the Vehicle Certification (VC) label.
^ Verify that- all tires are sized to specification.
^ Check the tires for damage or uneven wear.
3. Check the belt and tensioner.
^ Refer to diagnosis and testing of the accessory drive system.
4. Check the fluid level.
^ Verify that the power steering fluid level is within the appropriate hot or cold range on the dipstick. Add MERCON Multi-Purpose (ATF) Transmission Fluid XT-2-QDX or MERCON equivalent.
5. Check for air bleeding.
^ Verify that there is no air in the power steering system. Run the engine until it reaches normal operating temperature. Turn the steering wheel to the left and right several times without hitting the stops. If any air bubbles are present refer to Power Steering System Purging.
6. Check for external leaks.
^ With the ignition switch at OFF, wipe off the power steering pump, power steering pressure hose, power steering return hose, power steering fluid cooler and hose assembly and steering gear.
^ With the engine running, turn the steering wheel from stop-to-stop several times. Do not hold steering wheel at stops. Check for leaks. Repair as necessary if leaks are observed.
7. Check turning effort.





8. Visually inspect for obvious signs of mechanical damage.
9. If an obvious cause for an observed or reported malfunction is found, correct the cause (if possible) before proceeding to the next step.
10. If the concern remains after the inspection, connect the scan tool to the Data Link Connector (DLC) located beneath the instrument panel, and select the vehicle to be tested from the scan tool menu. If the scan tool does not communicate with the vehicle:
^ Check that the program card is correctly installed.
^ Check the connections to the vehicle.
^ Check the ignition switch position.
11. If the scan tool still does not communicate with the vehicle, refer to the tester manual.
12. Carry out the DATA LINK DIAGNOSTIC TEST. If the scan tool responds with:
^ CKT914, CKT915 or CKT70 = ALL ECUS NO RESP/NOT EQUIP, refer to Module Communications Network.
^ NO RESP/NOT EQUIP for VAPS, refer to Module Communications Network.
^ SYSTEM PASSED, retrieve and record the continuous Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), erase the continuous DTCs and carry out the self-test diagnostics for the VAPS module.
13. If the DTCs retrieved are related to the concern, go to Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Index to continue diagnostics. Diagnostic Trouble Code Tests and Associated Procedures
14. If no DTCs related to the concern are retrieved, proceed to Symptom Chart to continue diagnostics. Symptom Related Diagnostic Procedures
15. If the fault is not visually evident, determine the symptom and GO to Symptom Chart.