Symptom Charts

2010 Mercury Mariner Hybrid, AWDSECTION Symptom Charts
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Mercury Milan, 2006 Lincoln Zephyr, and 2006 Ford Fusion. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
SYMPTOM CHART - STEERING SYSTEM

Condition Possible Sources Action
  • Steering has lack of assist or inconsistent assist
  • Steering gear
  • Power steering pump
  • Restricted power steering lines/hoses
  • Excessive steering wheel play
  • Steering gear
  • Steering column
  • Steering column shaft/coupling
  • Steering linkage
  • Ball joints
  • Strut bearing plate
  • Steering system drift/pull/wander
  • Unevenly loaded vehicle
  • CORRECT the vehicle loading as necessary.
  • Tire pressure
  • Wheel alignment
  • Steering gear
  • Steering column shaft/coupling
  • Frame alignment
  • Poor returnability/sticky steering
  • Binding steering column shaft/coupling U-joints
  • INSTALL a new steering column shaft. Refer to STEERING COLUMN for the procedure.
  • Loose, worn or damaged steering linkage
  • Binding suspension components
  • To continue the suspension diagnosis, Refer to the appropriate article for the procedure.
  • Binding steering column bearing(s)
  • INSTALL a new steering column. Refer to STEERING COLUMN for the procedure.
  • Binding dash boot seal
  • INSTALL a new dash boot seal. Refer to the appropriate article for the procedure.
  • Steering system cold start noise
  • Blockage in the power steering fluid reservoir caused by power steering fluid contamination
    NOTE: Some noise during an extremely cold start (-12.2Β°C [-10Β°F]) is normal and should improve as the steering system warms up (usually within 60 seconds).
    RENDER: 1.0x

    NO RELATED

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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.