For 1990-2009 cars

#### Poor Return of Steering Wheel

Step | Action | Yes | No
--- | --- | --- | ---
DEFINITION: After completing a turn, extra steering input is required for the steering wheel to return to center.
1 | Did you review the General Description and perform the necessary inspections? | Go to Step 2 | Go to Power Steering System Description and Operation
2 | Verify that poor return of the steering wheel is present. Does the system operate normally? | System OK | Go to Step 3
3 |

1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle.
2. Lubricate the tie rod ends and ball joints, if applicable.
3. Inspect the suspension system for worn or damaged components.
4. Repair as necessary.

Did you find and correct the condition?

Go to Step 12

Go to Step 4

4 |

1. Rotate the steering wheel ONE revolution in both directions.
2. Rotate the steering wheel back to the original position.

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

Go to Step 5

Go to Step 10

5 | Important: Position the wheels straight ahead. Do NOT rotate the steering wheel more than one complete revolution from center.

1. Disconnect the intermediate shaft from the steering column.
2. Note the position of the steering wheel and rotate the steering wheel ONE revolution in both directions.
3. Rotate the steering wheel back to the original position.

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

Go to Step 11

Go to Step 6

6 | Inspect the intermediate shaft for stiff or loose joints. Repair or replace as necessary. Did you find and complete the repair? | Go to Step 12 | Go to Step 7
7 |

1. Remove the front tire and wheel assemblies. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation.
2. Disconnect both outer tie rod ends from the steering knuckles.
3. Use your hands in order to move the tie rod end studs.
4. If abnormally difficult to move, replace the tie rod end. If equipped with recirculating ball steering, ensure that idler and pitman arm joints are not to stiff. Repair as necessary.

Did you find and complete the repair?

Go to Step 12

Go to Step 8

8 |

1. Use your hands to rotate the steering knuckle inboard and outboard in order to inspect for a binding strut bearings, ball joints, or axle.
2. Repair or replace any abnormally stiff or loose components.

Did you find and complete the repair?

Go to Step 12

Go to Step 9

9 | Inspect for binding in the steering gear. If a binding is present repair or replace the steering gear. Did you find and complete the repair? | Go to Step 12 | Go to Step 10
10 | Inspect the wheel alignment and adjust as necessary. Refer to Wheel Alignment Measurement. Did you find and complete the repair? | Go to Step 12 | --
11 | Inspect the steering column for a binding. If a binding is present, repair or replace the steering column as necessary. Did you find and complete the repair? | Go to Step 12 | --
12 | Operate the system in order to verify the repair. Did you correct the condition? | System OK | --