DEFINITION: The steering wheel does not return to center after completing a turn.

Road test the vehicle in order to verify the customer concern.

Does the vehicle exhibit memory steer?

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Go to step 2

System OK

Verify that all of the tires are inflated to the correct pressure. Refer to Tire Inflation Pressure Specifications in Maintenance and Lubrication.

Did you complete the inspection/adjustment?

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Go to Step 3

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1. Lubricate the tie rod ends and the ball joints if applicable.
2. Inspect the suspension system for worn or damaged components.
3. Repair as necessary.
4. Road test the vehicle in order to verify the customer concern.

Does the vehicle still exhibit memory steer?

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Go to Step 4

System OK

1. Check for proper wheel alignment. Refer to Wheel Alignment Measurement in Wheel Alignment. Adjust as necessary.
2. Road test the vehicle in order to verify the customer concern.

Does the vehicle still exhibit memory steer?

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Go to Step 5

System OK

1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
2. Disconnect both of the outer tie rod ends from the steering knuckles. Refer to Rack and Pinion Outer Tie Rod End Replacement in Power Steering System.
3. Move the tie rod ends with your hands.

Are either of the tie rod ends abnormally difficult to move?

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Go to Step 6

Go to Step 7

1. Replace the outer tie rod ends as necessary. Refer to Rack and Pinion Outer Tie Rod End Replacement in Power Steering System.
2. Road test the vehicle in order to verify the customer concern.

Does the vehicle still exhibit memory steer?

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Go to step 7

System OK

Inspect for binding strut bearings and lower ball joints. Push and pull the front of the wheels inboard and outboard with your hands.

Are either of the struts abnormally difficult to move?

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Go to Step 8

Go to Step 12

1. Remove the tire/wheel.
2. Disconnect the strut from the steering knuckle. Refer to Strut Assembly Replacement in Front Suspension.
3. Rotate the strut with your hands.

Is the strut abnormally difficult to rotate?

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Go to Step 9

Go to Step 10

1. Replace the strut bearing. Refer to Strut, Strut Component, and Spring Replacement in Front Suspension.
2. Road test the vehicle in order to verify the customer concern.

Does the vehicle still exhibit memory steer?

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Go to Step 12

System OK

Rotate the steering knuckle/ball joint with your hands.

Is the steering knuckle/ball joint abnormally difficult to rotate?

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Go to Step 11

Go to Step 12

1. Replace the lower ball joint. Refer to Lower Control Arm Ball Joint Replacement in Front Suspension.
2. Road test the vehicle in order to verify the customer concern.

Does the vehicle still exhibit memory steer?

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Go to Step 12

System OK

1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
2. Rotate the steering wheel ONE revolution in either direction.
3. Rotate the steering wheel back to the original position.

Is the steering wheel abnormally difficult to rotate in either direction?

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Go to Step 13

Go to Step 1

1. Disconnect the intermediate shaft. Refer to Lower/Upper Intermediate Steering Shaft Replacement in Steering Wheel and Column - Tilt.

Important: Do NOT rotate the steering wheel more than one complete revolution.

2. Note the position of the steering wheel and rotate the steering wheel ONE revolution in either direction.
3. Rotate the steering wheel back to the original position as previously noted.

Is the steering wheel abnormally difficult to rotate in either direction?

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Go to Step 15

Go to Step 14

1. Repair the steering gear as necessary. Refer to Steering Gear Replacement in Power Steering System.
2. Road test the vehicle in order to verify the customer concern.

Does the vehicle still exhibit memory steer?

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Go to Step 1

System OK

1. Repair the steering column as necessary. Refer to Lower/Upper Intermediate Steering Shaft Replacement in Steering Wheel and Column - Tilt.
2. Road test the vehicle in order to verify the customer concern.

Does the vehicle still exhibit memory steer?

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Go to Step 1

System OK