Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
SYS.OK|MANUAL.DBβ LIVE
HOMESERVICE MANUALSFORD2007FUSION SEL, 2.3 Z, STANDARDREPAIR AND DIAGNOSIS (SINGLE PAGE)STEERINGPOWER STEERINGSTEERING SYSTEM - GENERAL INFORMATIONDIAGNOSTIC TESTSSTEERING SYSTEMCOMPONENT TESTSSTEERING GEAR GRUNT/SHUDDER TEST
2007 Ford Fusion SEL, 2.3 Z, Standard
Steering Gear Grunt/Shudder Test
2007 Ford Fusion SEL, 2.3 Z, StandardSECTION Steering Gear Grunt/Shudder Test
- Start and run the vehicle to operating temperature.
- Set engine idle speed to 1200 rpm.
- Rotate the steering wheel to the RH stop, then turn the steering wheel 90 degrees back from that position. Slowly turn the steering wheel back and forth approximately 1/12 of a full turn.
- Turn the steering wheel another 90 degrees. Slowly turn the steering wheel back and forth approximately 1/12 of a full turn.
- Repeat the test with the power steering fluid at different temperatures.
- If a light grunt is heard or a low (50-200 Hz) shudder is present, this is a normal steering system condition.
- If a loud grunt is heard, or a strong shudder is felt, purge the power steering system. Refer to Power Steering System Purging - 2.3LΒ or Power Steering System Purging - 3.0L, 3.5LΒ . If a loud grunt or strong shudder still exists, check the power steering lines/hoses for restrictions or damage and repair as necessary. Refer to STEERING COLUMN . If the lines/hoses are OK, install a new steering gear. Refer to STEERING COLUMN .
CAUTION:
Do not hold the steering wheel against the stops for more than 3 to 5 seconds at a time. Damage to the power steering pump will occur.
RENDER: 1.0x
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.