Turning Effort Test

1999 Mazda 626 ES, 2.5 D, StandardSECTION Turning Effort Test
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Mazda B4000, 2002 Mazda B3000, and 2002 Mazda B2300. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
NOTE: Make sure that the front wheels are properly aligned and the tire pressure is correct before checking the effort.
  1. Park the vehicle on dry concrete and set the parking brake.
  2. Insert a thermometer into the power steering fluid reservoir.
  3. CAUTION: Do not hold the steering wheel against the stops for more than three to five seconds at a time. Damage to the power steering pump will occur.
  4. Idle the engine for two to three minutes. Turn the steering wheel from stop to stop several times to warm the fluid to 50-60Β°C (122-140Β°F).
  5. With the engine running, attach a Spring Scale 211-034 (T74P-3504-4) or equivalent to the rim of the steering wheel.
  6. Measure the pull required to turn the steering wheel one complete revolution in each direction. See SPECIFICATIONSΒ .
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.