GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Begin the system diagnosis by reviewing the system Description and Operation. Refer to Power Steering System Description and Operation . Reviewing the Description and Operation information will help you determine the correct symptom diagnostic procedure when a malfunction exists. Reviewing the Description and Operation information will also help you determine if the condition described by the customer is normal operation. Refer to Symptoms - Power Steering System in order to identify the correct procedure for diagnosing the system and where the procedure is located.

Important: Review the system description and operation in order to familiarize yourself with the system functions. Refer to Power Steering System Description and Operation .

Visual/Physical Inspection

    â€¢ Inspect for aftermarket devices which could affect the operation of the power steering system.
    â€¢ Inspect the easily accessible or visible system components for obvious damage or conditions which could cause the symptom.
    â€¢ Inspect for leaking power steering components. If necessary, refer to Power Steering Fluid Leaks .
    â€¢ Verify the power steering fluid level per operating specification. Refer to Checking and Adding Power Steering Fluid .
    â€¢ Inspect the power steering fluid for the following indications of contamination:
       - Milky fluid - water
       - Brown fluid - burnt
       - Debris in fluid - plastic or dirt
    â€¢ If necessary, flush the power steering system. Refer to Power Steering System Flushing .

Symptoms List

Refer to a symptom diagnostic procedure from the following list in order to diagnose the symptom:

    â€¢  Power Steering Fluid Leaks
    â€¢  Rattle, Clunk, or Shudder Noise from the Power Steering System
    â€¢  Whine or Growl Noise from the Power Steering System
    â€¢  Steering Effort Hard in One or Both Directions
    â€¢  Steering Effort Too Easy in One or Both Directions