Steering Effort Measurement

WARNING: Vehicles are equipped with air bags. Before removing steering wheel pad, disable air bag. For Lexus, see AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEM article. For Toyota, see AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEM article.

Center steering wheel.Remove the steering wheel pad. For Lexus, see STEERING WHEEL PAD & SPIRAL CABLE in AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS article.For Toyota, see STEERING WHEEL PAD & SPIRAL CABLE in AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS article.
Start the engine and run it at idle. Measure steering effort. See Fig 1.

Fig 1: Measuring Steering Effort
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NOTE: Be sure to consider the tire type, pressure and contact surface before making your diagnosis.

Measure the steering effort in both directions. Effort should be 73 INCH lbs. (8.3 N.m). If steering effort is excessive, repair the power steering unit.
Torque the wheel set nut to 25 ft. lbs. (34 N.m). Install the steering wheel pad.