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.
Steering Gear Grunt/Shudder Test
2021 Ford Edge SE, 4WDSECTION Steering Gear Grunt/Shudder Test
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2018 Ford F-550 Super Duty, 2018 Ford F-450 Super Duty, 2018 Ford F-350 Super Duty, and 2018 Ford F-250 Super Duty. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Place a Dial Thermometer in the power steering fluid reservoir.
- With the engine cold, start the engine and set engine idle speed to 1, 200 RPM.
-
NOTE: Do not hold the steering wheel against the stops for more than 5 seconds. Damage to the power steering pump may occur.
Rotate the steering wheel to the RH stop, then turn the steering wheel 90 degrees back to the left. Slowly turn the steering wheel back and forth approximately one-twelfth of a full turn.
- Turn the steering wheel another 90 degrees. Slowly turn the steering wheel back and forth approximately one-twelfth of a full turn.
- Repeat the test with the power steering fluid at different temperatures until the temperature reaches 74-80 °C (165-176 °F).
- 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 . If a loud grunt or strong shudder still exists, check the power steering lines/hoses for restrictions or damage and repair as necessary. If the lines/hoses are OK, install a new steering gear. REFER to: Steering Gear - Vehicles With: Hydro-Boost™ .
RENDER: 1.0x
NO RELATED
Recommended Tools & Savings
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
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.