Power Assist Check

NOTE: This test should be done with the original equipment tires and wheels at the correct tire pressure.

Start the engine, and let it idle.
Attach a commercially available spring scale to the steering wheel. With the engine idling and the vehicle on a clean, dry floor, pull the scale as shown, and read it as soon as the tires begin to turn.

Fig 1: Using Scale To Check Power Assist
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
If the scale reads no more than 29 N (3.0 kgf, 6.6 lbf), the power assist is OK. If it reads more, check these items:
- Front tire pressure
- Steering linkage (see STEERING LINKAGE AND GEARBOX INSPECTION )
- Rack guide adjustment (see RACK GUIDE ADJUSTMENT )
- EPS system (see ELECTRICAL POWER STEERING )