Problem Symptoms Table
Use the table below to help you find the cause of the problem. The numbers indicate the likelihood of the cause in the descending order. Check each part in the order shown. Replace these parts as necessary.
STEERING SYSTEM
PROBLEM SYMPTOMS CHART
| Symptom | Suspected area | See example |
|---|---|---|
| Hard steering | 1. Tires (Improperly inflated) | TIRE AND WHEEL SYSTEM |
| 2. Power steering fluid level (Low) | POWER STEERING FLUID | |
| 3. Drive belt (Loose) | DRIVE BELT | |
| 4. Front wheel alignment (Incorrect) | FRONT WHEEL ALIGNMENT | |
| 5. Steering system joints (Worn) | - | |
| 6. Suspension arm ball joints (Worn) | REMOVAL | |
| 7. Steering column (Binding) | - | |
| 8. Power steering vane pump | VANE PUMP | |
| 9. Power steering gear | RACK AND PINION POWER STEERING GEAR | |
| Poor return | 1. Tires (Improperly inflated) | TIRE AND WHEEL SYSTEM |
| 2. Front wheel alignment (Incorrect) | FRONT WHEEL ALIGNMENT | |
| 3. Steering column (Binding) | - | |
| 4. Power steering gear | RACK AND PINION POWER STEERING GEAR | |
| Excessive play | 1. Steering system joints (Worn) | - |
| 2. Suspension arm ball joints (Worn) | REMOVAL | |
| 3. Intermediate shaft, Sliding yoke (Worn) | - | |
| 4. Front wheel bearing (Worn) | FRONT AXLE HUB | |
| 5. Power steering gear | RACK AND PINION POWER STEERING GEAR | |
| Abnormal noise | 1. Power steering fluid level (Low) | POWER STEERING FLUID |
| 2. Steering system joints (Worn) | - | |
| 3. Power steering vane pump | VANE PUMP | |
| 4. Power steering gear | RACK AND PINION POWER STEERING GEAR |