INSPECT DRIVE BELT
Visually check the drive belt for excessive wear, frayed cords, etc.
If any defect is found, replace the drive belt.
Tech Tips
Cracks on the rib side of a belt are considered acceptable. Replace the belt if there are any missing ribs.
CHECK FLUID LEVEL
Keep the vehicle level.
With the engine stopped, check the fluid level in the reservoir.
If necessary, add fluid.
| Fluid |
|---|
| ATF DEXRON II or III, or equivalent |
Tech Tips
If the fluid is hot, check that the fluid level is within the HOT range on the oil reservoir or cap dipstick. If the fluid is cold, check that the fluid level is within the COLD range.
Start the engine and run at idle.
Turn the steering wheel from lock to lock several times to raise fluid temperature.
| Fluid temperature |
|---|
| 75 to 80°C (167 to 176°F) |
Check for foaming or emulsification.
If foaming or emulsification is identified, bleed the power steering system Click here.
With the engine idling, measure the fluid level in the oil reservoir.
Stop the engine.
Wait a few minutes and remeasure the fluid level in the oil reservoir.
| Maximum fluid level rise |
|---|
| 5 mm (0.20 in.) |
If a problem is found, bleed the power steering system Click here.
Check the fluid level.
INSPECT STEERING FLUID PRESSURE
Disconnect the pressure feed tube assembly Click here for 2TR-FE, Click here for 2KD-FTV, Click here for 5L-E, Click here for 1KD-FTV).
Connect SST as shown in the illustration.
Note
Check that the valve of the SST is in the open position.
Bleed the power steering system Click here.
Start the engine and run at idle.
Turn the steering wheel from lock to lock several times to raise fluid temperature.
| Fluid temperature |
|---|
| 75 to 80°C (167 to 176°F) |
With the engine idling, close the valve of the SST and observe the reading on the SST.
| Fluid pressure |
|---|
| 2TR-FE, 2KD-FTV, 1KD-FTV |
| 9300 to 10000 kPa (95 to 102 kgf/cm2, 1349 to 1450 psi) |
| 5L-E |
| 8300 to 8800 kPa (85 to 90 kgf/cm2, 1204 to 1276 psi) |
Note
Do not keep the valve closed for more than 10 seconds.
Do not allow the fluid temperature to become too high.
If not within the specified range, check for fluid leaks and replace parts as necessary.
With the engine idling, open the valve fully.
Measure the fluid pressure at engine speeds of 1000 rpm and 3000 rpm.
| Difference in fluid pressure |
|---|
| 490 kPa (5 kgf/cm2, 71 psi) or less |
Note
Do not turn the steering wheel.
If not within the specified range, check for fluid leaks and replace parts as necessary.
With the engine idling and the valve fully opened, turn the steering wheel left or right to the full lock position. Observe the reading on the SST.
| Fluid pressure |
|---|
| 2TR-FE, 2KD-FTV, 1KD-FTV |
| 9300 to 10000 kPa (95 to 102 kgf/cm2, 1349 to 1450 psi) |
| 5L-E |
| 8300 to 8800 kPa (85 to 90 kgf/cm2, 1204 to 1276 psi) |
Note
Do not keep the steering wheel in the full lock position for more than 10 seconds.
Do not allow the fluid temperature to become too high.
If not within the specified range, check for fluid leaks and replace parts as necessary.
Disconnect the SST.
Connect the pressure feed tube assembly Click here for 2TR-FE, Click here for 2KD-FTV, Click here for 5L-E, Click here for 1KD-FTV).
Bleed the power steering system. Click here
CHECK STEERING EFFORT
Note
Some service operations affect the SRS airbags. Be sure to read the precautionary notice for the SRS airbags before servicing Click here.
Stop the vehicle on a level, paved surface and align the wheels straight ahead.
Disconnect the negative (-) battery cable from the battery Click here.
Remove the steering pad Click here.
Connect the negative (-) battery cable to the battery.
Using a torque wrench, check if the steering wheel set nut is properly tightened.
Start the engine and run at idle.
Turn the steering wheel 90 degrees to the right and check steering effort (torque) while turning the wheel. Check in the opposite direction in the same manner.
| Steering effort (Reference) |
|---|
| 6.0 N*m (61 kgf*cm, 53 in.*lbf) or less |
Tech Tips
Check tire type, pressure, and the road surface before making your diagnosis.
If not within the specified range, check the power steering system Click here.
Disconnect the negative (-) battery cable from the battery.
Torque the steering wheel set nut.
Install the steering pad Click here.
Connect the negative (-) battery cable to the battery.
Clear the DTCs Click here.
Perform initialization Click here.
Inspect the airbag warning light Click here.