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Problem Symptoms Table

HINT: 

Use the table below to help determine the cause of the problem symptom. The potential causes of the symptoms are listed in order of probability in the "Suspected Area" column of the table. Check each symptom by checking the suspected areas in the order they are listed. Replace parts as necessary.

STEERING SYSTEM

Symptom Suspected Area See
Hard steering 1. Front tires (Improperly inflated or unevenly worn) Refer to INSPECTION
2. Front wheel alignment (Incorrect) Refer to ADJUSTMENT
3. Front suspension (Lower ball joint) Refer to INSPECTION
4. Steering intermediate shaft Refer to REMOVAL
5. Steering column Refer to REMOVAL
6. Steering gear Refer to REMOVAL
7. Power steering ECU Refer to REMOVAL
Poor return 1. Front tires (Improperly inflated or unevenly worn) Refer to INSPECTION
2. Front wheel alignment (Incorrect) Refer to ADJUSTMENT
3. Steering column Refer to REMOVAL
4. Steering gear Refer to REMOVAL
5. Power steering ECU Refer to REMOVAL
No free play or excessive play 1. Steering intermediate shaft Refer to REMOVAL
2. Steering gear Refer to REMOVAL
Knocking (or clunking) sound occurs when steering wheel turned while power steering in operation 1. Steering intermediate shaft Refer to REMOVAL
2. Front suspension (Lower ball joint) Refer to INSPECTION
3. Front axle hub (Hub bearing) Refer to REMOVAL
4. Steering gear Refer to REMOVAL
Friction sound occurs when steering wheel turned during low speed driving 1. Power steering motor Refer to REMOVAL
2. Steering column Refer to REMOVAL
High-pitched sound (squealing sound) occurs when steering wheel turned slowly with vehicle stopped 1. Power steering motor Refer to REMOVAL
Steering wheel vibrates and noise occurs when steering wheel turned while vehicle stopped 1. Power steering motor Refer to REMOVAL
2. Steering column Refer to REMOVAL