Component Tests and General Diagnostics
Steering wheel effort1. With vehicle on a hard, level surface, point wheels in straight-ahead position.
2. Start engine and warm power steering fluid to 122 - 140°F (50 - 60°C).Turn steering wheel fully left and right several times to warm fluid.
3. With engine running at idle speed, attach a pull scale to outermost point of a steering wheel spoke. Then, beginning with wheels in straight-ahead position, check steering effort required to turn steering wheel to left and to right.
4. If measured effort exceeds specification, check the following: fluid level, air in system, fluid leakage at hose or its connections, function of P/S oil pump and steering gear, and tire pressures.
Steering wheel effort: 7 lbs. (31 N) Maximum