Normal Operation
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Mercury Monterey and 2004 Ford Freestar. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
When the steering wheel is turned, the steering shaft rotates in the steering column on bearings. This mechanical motion is then converted to hydraulic pressure that reduces assists in the effort that it takes to steer the vehicle. This hydraulic pressure from the power steering pump to the power steering gear is then converted back to mechanical motion that will move the front wheels in the direction of the turn. The steering gear uses tie rod ends to connect the front knuckles to one another. The knuckles then pivot on the ball joints in order to steer the vehicle.