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HOMESERVICE MANUALSTOYOTA2004MATRIX XR, FWD, STANDARDREPAIR AND DIAGNOSISEXTERNAL PAGESDIFFERENT CARSECTION 495 (POWER STEERING FLUID)INSPECTION
2004 Toyota Matrix XR, FWD, Standard

Section 495 (Power Steering Fluid): Inspection

2004 Toyota Matrix XR, FWD, StandardSECTION Inspection
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Toyota RAV4. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. CHECK FLUID LEVEL 
    1. Keep the vehicle level.
    2. With the engine stopped, check the fluid level in the oil reservoir.

      If necessary, add fluid.

      Fluid: ATF DEXRON® II or III 

      HINT:

      If the fluid is hot, check that the fluid level is within the HOT LEVEL range on the reservoir. If the fluid is cold, check that it is within the COLD LEVEL range.

      Fig 1: Identifying Fluid Hot Level Range & Cold Level Range
      G02926184Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
    3. Start the engine and run it at idle.
    4. Turn the steering wheel from lock to lock several times to boost fluid temperature.

      Fluid temperature: 80°C (176°F) 

    5. Check for foaming or emulsification.

      If there is foaming or emulsification, bleed power steering system (See BLEEDING  ).

      Fig 2: Identifying Normal & Abnormal Fluid
      G02926185Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
    6. With the engine idling, measure the fluid level in the oil reservoir.
    7. Stop the engine.
    8. Wait a few minutes and remeasure the fluid level in the oil reservoir.

      Maximum fluid level rise: 5 mm (0.20 in.) 

      If a problem is found, bleed power steering system (See BLEEDING  ).

    9. Check the fluid level.
      Fig 3: Measuring Reservoir Fluid Level With Engine Idling & Stopped
      G02926186Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
  2. CHECK STEERING FLUID PRESSURE 
    1. Disconnect the pressure feed tube from the P/S vane pump (See REMOVAL ).
    2. Connect SST, as shown in Fig 4.

      SST 09640-10010 (09641-01010, 09641-01030, 09641-01060)

      NOTE: Check that the valve of the SST is in the open position.
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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.