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

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 POWER STEERING 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 A3.
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 POWER STEERING for the procedure.

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