Pinpoint Test A: Steering Has Lack Of Assist Or Inconsistent Assist

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Mercury Milan, 2006 Lincoln Zephyr, and 2006 Ford Fusion. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

A1 CHECK THE STEERING ASSIST WITH THE ENGINE RPM RAISED
- Set the engine at 2,100 RPM and turn the steering wheel fully to the left and right.
- Is steering assist normal with the engine RPM raised.
Yes : INSTALL a new power steering pump. Refer to POWER STEERING for the procedure.

No : GO to A2.
A2 CHECK FOR A CHANGE OF ASSIST ON LEFT AND RIGHT TURNS
- With the engine at idle, turn the steering wheel fully to the left and to the right.
- Does the steering assist change when turning from right to left.
Yes : INSTALL a new steering gear. Refer to STEERING GEAR for the procedure.

No : GO to A3.
A3 CHECK THE STEERING LINES AND HOSES FOR RESTRICTIONS
- Inspect the steering lines and hoses for damage, kinks or restrictions.
- Are the steering lines or hoses damaged, kinked or restricted.
Yes : INSTALL new lines or hoses as necessary.

No : GO to A4.
A4 MONITOR THE ENGINE RPM CHANGES

CAUTION: Do not hold the steering wheel at the stops for an extended amount of time. Damage to the power steering pump can occur.

NOTE: Make sure that the vehicle is on a flat, dry surface, all accessories are in the OFF position and that the steering system is at normal operating temperature.

Connect the scan tool.
Start the engine.
With the engine at idle, raise the power steering fluid temperature to 74-80°C (165-176°F) by rotating the steering wheel fully to the left and right several times.
While monitoring the engine RPM with the scan tool, turn the steering wheel quickly to the left stop position and then to the right stop position.
Note the engine RPM during the turns.
Does the engine RPM change (even temporarily) more than 30 RPM when turning the steering wheel?

Yes : INSTALL a new steering gear. Refer to STEERING GEAR for the procedure.

No : INSTALL a new power steering pump. Refer to POWER STEERING for the procedure.