Symptoms - Power Steering System

Symptoms - Power Steering System

Note:
Review the system description and operation in order to familiarize yourself with the system functions. Refer to Power Steering System Description and Operation (Hydraulic Power Steering (NJ0)) Power Steering System Description and Operation (Hydraulic Power Steering (NJ0))Power Steering System Description and Operation (Electronic Power Steering) Power Steering System (Electronic Power 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.

* If equipped with hydraulic power steering, inspect for leaking power steering components. If necessary, refer to Power Steering Fluid Leaks Symptom Related Diagnostic Procedures.

* If equipped with hydraulic power steering, verify the power steering fluid level is correct. Refer to Checking and Adding Power Steering Fluid Power Steering.

* If equipped with hydraulic power steering, inspect the power steering fluid for the following indications of contamination:

- Milky fluid - water

- Brown fluid - burnt

- Debris in fluid - plastic or dirt

* If the hydraulic power steering system is contaminated, flush the power steering system. Refer to Power Steering System Flushing Power Steering System Flushing.

Symptoms List

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

* Power Steering Fluid Leaks Symptom Related Diagnostic Procedures

* Rattle, Clunk, or Shudder Noise from the Power Steering System (NV7, NXC) Symptom Related Diagnostic ProceduresRattle, Clunk, or Shudder Noise from the Power Steering System (NJ1) Symptom Related Diagnostic Procedures

* Whine or Growl Noise from the Power Steering System (NJ1) Symptom Related Diagnostic ProceduresWhine or Growl Noise from the Power Steering System (NV7, NXC) Symptom Related Diagnostic Procedures

* Poor Return of Steering Wheel Symptom Related Diagnostic Procedures

* Steering Wheel Surges/Jerks While Turning (NJ1) Symptom Related Diagnostic Procedures

* Steering Wheel Kickback (NJ1) Symptom Related Diagnostic Procedures

* Steering Effort Hard or Too Easy in One or Both Directions (NJ1) Symptom Related Diagnostic ProceduresSteering Effort Hard or Too Easy in One or Both Directions (NV7) Symptom Related Diagnostic Procedures