Problem Symptoms Table
HINT:
- 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.
- Inspect the fuses and relays related to this system before inspecting the suspected areas below.
STEERING SYSTEM
| Symptom | Suspected Area | See |
|---|---|---|
| Hard steering | Tires (Improperly inflated) | Refer to INSPECTION - Step 1 |
| Front wheel alignment (Incorrect) | Refer to ADJUSTMENT | |
| Steering system joints (Worn) | - | |
| Suspension arm ball joints (Worn) | Refer to INSPECTION | |
| Steering column (Binding) | Refer to REMOVAL | |
| Power steering gear | Refer to REMOVAL | |
| Power steering ECU | Refer to REMOVAL | |
| Poor return | Tires (Improperly inflated) | Refer to INSPECTION - Step 1 |
| Front wheel alignment (Incorrect) | Refer to ADJUSTMENT | |
| Steering column (Binding) | Refer to REMOVAL | |
| Power steering gear | Refer to REMOVAL | |
| Power steering ECU | Refer to REMOVAL | |
| Excessive free play | Steering system joints (Worn) | - |
| Suspension arm ball joints (Worn) | Refer to INSPECTION | |
| Intermediate shaft, universal joint, sliding yoke (Worn) | - | |
| Front wheel bearing (Worn) | Refer to ON-VEHICLE INSPECTION | |
| Power steering gear | Refer to REMOVAL | |
| Knocking (or clunking) sound occurs when steering wheel turned while power steering is operating | Steering intermediate shaft | - |
| Suspension arm ball joints (Worn) | Refer to INSPECTION | |
| Front axle hub (Hub bearing) | Refer to ON-VEHICLE INSPECTION | |
| Power steering gear | Refer to REMOVAL | |
| Friction sound occurs when steering wheel turned during low-speed driving | Power steering motor | - |
| Steering column | Refer to REMOVAL | |
| 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 | Refer to REMOVAL |