Pinpoint Test A: Steering Has Lack Of Assist Or Inconsistent Assist

Steering System

Pinpoint Tests

Pinpoint Test A: Steering Has Lack of Assist or Inconsistent Assist

NOTE: Hard steering or lack of assist is experienced when the steering wheel effort exceeds specifications. Hard steering can remain constant through the full turn, occur near the end of a turn or differ right to left. It is important to know the difference between hard steering/lack of assist and poor returnability/sticky steering.

This pinpoint test is intended to diagnose the following:
- Power steering fluid contamination
- Steering gear
- Power steering pump
- Power steering hoses


PINPOINT TEST A: STEERING HAS LACK OF ASSIST OR INCONSISTENT ASSIST

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A1 CHECK FOR POWER STEERING FLUID CONTAMINATION


- Check the power steering fluid for contamination.
- Is the power steering fluid contaminated?

Yes
FLUSH the power steering system. REFER to Power Steering System Flushing Power Steering System Flushing. CHECK the system for normal operation. If assist concern still exists, GO to A2.

No
GO to A2.

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A2 CHECK THE STEERING ASSIST WITH THE ENGINE RPM RAISED


- NOTICE: Do not hold the steering wheel at the stops for an extended amount of time. Damage to the power steering pump may occur.

- Set the engine at 2,100 rpm and turn the steering wheel fully to the left and right.
- Is steering assist normal with the engine rpm raised?

Yes
INSTALL a new power steering pump. REFER to Power Steering Power Steering Pump.

No
GO to A3.

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A3 CHECK FOR A CHANGE OF ASSIST ON LEFT AND RIGHT TURNS


- With the engine at idle, turn the steering wheel fully to the left and to the right.
- Does the steering assist change when turning from right to left?

Yes
INSTALL a new steering gear. REFER to Power Steering Steering Gear.

No
CARRY OUT the Power Steering Pressure Test Component Test. Component Tests and General Diagnostics

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