STEERING SYSTEM PROBLEM SYMPTOMS TABLE
Tech Tips
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Use the table below to help determine the cause of problem symptoms. If multiple suspected areas are listed, 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.
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Inspect the fuses and relays related to this system before inspecting the suspected areas below.
| Symptom | Suspected Area | See page |
|---|---|---|
| Hard steering | Tires (Improperly inflated) | |
| Front wheel alignment (Incorrect) | ||
| Steering system joints (Worn) | - | |
| Suspension arm ball joints (Worn) | ||
| Steering column (Binding) | ||
| Power steering gear | ||
| Power steering ECU | ||
| Poor return | Tires (Improperly inflated) | |
| Front wheel alignment (Incorrect) | ||
| Steering column (Binding) | ||
| Power steering gear | ||
| Power steering ECU | ||
| Excessive free play | Steering system joints (Worn) | - |
| Suspension arm ball joints (Worn) | ||
| Intermediate shaft, universal joint, sliding yoke (Worn) | - | |
| Front wheel bearing (Worn) | ||
| Power steering gear | ||
| Knocking (or clunking) sound occurs when steering wheel turned while power steering is operating | Steering intermediate shaft | - |
| Suspension arm ball joints (Worn) | ||
| Front axle hub (Hub bearing) | ||
| Power steering gear | ||
| Friction sound occurs when steering wheel turned during low-speed driving | Power steering motor | - |
| Steering column | ||
| High-pitched sound (squealing sound) occurs when steering wheel turned slowly with vehicle stopped | Power steering motor | - |
| Steering wheel vibrates and noise occurs when steering wheel turned while vehicle stopped | Power steering motor | - |
| Steering column |