Service Notice And Precautions For Steering System

Check each tire for proper air pressure and size. Refer to Tire Air Pressure .
Verify that the steering system components are genuine NISSAN parts and have been installed properly.
Check the steering column for loose mounting bolts.
Check the steering gear assembly for loose mounting bolts. Check the inner sockets and outer sockets for damage or wear. Inspect the boots and seals for leakage of power steering fluid.
Verify proper wheel alignment. Refer to Inspection and Adjustment .
Check for any damage, wear, or modification to the suspension and body that would result in increased weight or an improper wheel arch height. Refer to Wheel Arch Height .
Check for proper battery voltage.
Verify that all power steering pump assembly connections are clean and fully seated.
Verify that only genuine NISSAN E-PSF is used. Use of any power steering fluid other than genuine NISSAN E-PSF will prevent the power steering system from proper operation.
An audible high pitch noise may be heard from the engine compartment when the steering wheel is operated, particularly at low speeds such as a parking lot maneuver. This condition is not a malfunction, rather normal system operation. Steering at low speeds or parking lot maneuvers demands higher hydraulic assistance, resulting in larger power steering pump load and increased system noise.
The power steering pump is electrically controlled by the power steering control module.
Before connecting or disconnecting the power steering control module harness connectors, turn ignition switch "OFF" and disconnect battery ground cable. Battery voltage is applied to power steering control module even if ignition switch is turned "OFF".