The steering gear is binding.

1. Inspect for correct rack bearing preload.
2. Inspect for steering gear damage.
3. Adjust the components as needed.
4. Replace the components as needed.

Refer to Steering Gear Replacement .

The steering gear is catching.

1. Inspect for correct rack bearing preload.
2. Inspect for steering gear damage.
3. Adjust the components as needed.
4. Replace the components as needed.

Refer to Steering Gear Replacement .

The fluid is low.

Inspect for internal leaking in the power steering components. Refer to Power Steering Gear and Pump Leaks .

The plastic boot on the intermediate shaft is out of position.

1. Inspect the plastic boot on the intermediate shaft.
2. Replace the plastic boot on the intermediate shaft as needed. Refer to Intermediate Steering Shaft Replacement in Steering Wheel and Column-Tilt.

The intermediate shaft bolt torque is too high.

Tighten the intermediate shaft bolt to specification. Refer to Fastener Tightening Specifications .

The internal pump or steering gear is excessively leaking.

1. Inspect the internal pump or the steering gear.
2. Repair or replace the PS pump or the steering gear, as needed.

Refer to the appropriate procedure:

The pump pressure is insufficient.

1. Inspect the pump pressure. Refer to Power Steering Gear and Pump Leaks .
2. Replace the pump, as needed. Refer to Power Steering Pump Replacement .

The column to steering gear joints are loose or worn.

1. Tighten to the correct specification. Refer to Fastener Tightening Specifications .
2. Replace the components as needed. Refer to Steering Column Replacement in Steering Wheel and Column-Tilt.

The steering gear valve is sticking.

1. Flush the power steering system. Refer to Power Steering System Bleeding .
2. Bleed the power steering system. Refer to Power Steering System Bleeding .
3. If the symptom persists, replace the steering gear. Refer to Steering Gear Replacement .

The PS fluid is too thick .

1. In the cold weather, the fluid has the following characteristics:

•

Thickens

•	Resists movement through the system

2. For temperatures -12°C (10°F) or lower perform the following steps:

2.1.	Drain the power steering system. Refer to Draining the Power Steering System .

2.2.	Flush the power steering system. Refer to Power Steering System Bleeding .

2.3.	Refill with GM Low Temperature Climate Service Fluid or equivalent. Refer to Checking and Adding Power Steering Fluid .