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.
2012 Ford Taurus AWD V6-3.5LFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Pinpoint Test C: Steering System Drift/Pull/Wander
Steering System
Pinpoint Test C: Steering System Drift/Pull/Wander
This pinpoint test is intended to diagnose the following:
- Steering gear
- Steering column shaft
- Steering column shaft U-joints
- Steering gear mounts
PINPOINT TEST C : STEERING SYSTEM DRIFT/PULL/WANDER
C1 CHECK THE STEERING COLUMN SHAFT
NOTE: Be sure to keep the clockspring centered when disconnecting the intermediate shaft.
- Check the steering column and shaft for grounding.
- Disconnect the steering column shaft at the steering column.
- Inspect the steering column shaft U-joints for looseness or wear.
Are the steering column shaft U-joints OK?
Yes
GO to C2.
No
INSTALL a new steering column shaft as necessary.
C2 CHECK THE STEERING GEAR MOUNTING
- Check the steering gear mounts for looseness or wear.
Are the steering gear mounts OK?
Yes
GO to C3.
No
INSTALL a new steering gear as necessary.
C3 CHECK THE STEERING GEAR
- Carry out the Steering Gear Valve Component Test. Component Tests and General Diagnostics
Is the steering gear valve OK?
Yes
REFER to Suspension &/or Alignment to diagnose suspension system drift/pull/wander.
No
REPAIR or INSTALL a new steering gear as necessary.
Factory Service Tools
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
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