DIAGNOSIS & TESTING
Power Steering Troubleshooting Chart
Review this troubleshooting chart any time a power steering system problem is present. This chart will help deter-
mine if the power steering pump or power steering gear is functioning properly.
CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTION
Steering Wheel Is Loose
· Steering wheel retaining bolt loose.
· Loose steering column to
instrument panel fasteners.
· Check steering wheel retaining bolt
torque and tighten to specifications if
necessary.
· Check steering column to
instrument panel fastener torque and
tighten to specifications if necessary.
Steering Catches, Surges Or Sticks
In Certain Positions Or Is Difficult To
Turn
· Low power steering fluid level.
· Tire(s) not properly inflated.
· Loose or slipping power steering/
accessory drive belt.
· Lack of lubrication in steering gear
outer tie rod end(s).
· Check fluid level and fill to proper
level if necessary. Check for leaks.
Make sure all air is bled from
system.
· Check and inflate tires to the
specified pressure.
· Verify belt tension. Replace belt
auto-tensioner and belt if necessary.
· Check the outer tie rod ends.
Steering Wheel Does Not Return To
Center Position
· Tire(s) not properly inflated.
· Improper front wheel alignment.
· Check and inflate tires to the
specified pressure.
· Check and adjust wheel alignment
if necessary.
Excessive Steering Wheel Kickback
From Road Inputs
· Air in power steering fluid.
· Power steering gear loose on
cradle/sub-frame.
· Steering column, coupling or
intermediate shaft worn or loose.
· Power steering pump flow is too
low.
· Inspect for excessive air bubbles in
fluid (fluid will appear foamy and
lighter in color). Inspect hoses for
leaks and replace if necessary.
Bleed air from fluid.
· Inspect gear mounting bolts.
Replace if necessary and tighten to
specifications.
· Rotate steering wheel back-and-
forth while inspecting intermediate
shaft going into steering gear. Look
for excessive free-play. Retighten if
loose bolt is found. Replace steering
column, coupling or intermediate
shaft if necessary.
· Perform power steering flow and
pressure test. Look for low or erratic
flow or pressure. Replace power
steering pump if necessary.
11–4
Chery Automobile Co., Ltd.