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.
Description & Operation
The major components of the power steering system are the steering wheel, steering column and shaft assembly, intermediate shaft, power steering gear, tie rods, steering knuckles, power steering pump and hoses.
When steering wheel is turned, steering gear input shaft/pinion gear teeth mesh with horizontal rack teeth to move rack left or right. Rack is connected to steering knuckles by inner tie rods and tie rod ends.
Engine mounted belt driven power steering pump supplies pressurized fluid to the steering gear input shaft. Shaft contains a spool valve that directs fluid to either side of the rack piston, depending on turning direction. Fluid pressure reduces the effort required to turn the steering wheel.
NO RELATED
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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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.