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HOMESERVICE MANUALSTOYOTA2004MATRIX XR, FWD, STANDARDREPAIR AND DIAGNOSISEXTERNAL PAGESDIFFERENT CARSECTION 795 (STEERING SYSTEM)POWER STEERING FLUIDINSPECTION
2004 Toyota Matrix XR, FWD, Standard

Power Steering Fluid: Inspection

2004 Toyota Matrix XR, FWD, StandardSECTION Inspection
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Lexus IS 300. 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.

      1. Fluid: ATF DEXRON® II or III 

      HINT:

      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.

    3. Start the engine and run it at idle.
    4. Turn the steering wheel from lock to lock several times to boost fluid temperature.
      1. Fluid temperature: 80°C (176°F) 
        Fig 1: Checking Fluid Level
        G00893366Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
    5. Check for foaming or emulsification.

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

      Fig 2: Checking Power Steering Fluid Foaming Or Emulsification
      G00893367Courtesy 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.
      1. 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: Checking Fluid Level
      G00893368Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
  2. CHECK STEERING FLUID PRESSURE 
    1. Disconnect the pressure feed tube from the PS gear (See REMOVAL ).
    2. Connect SST, as shown in Fig 4 .
      1. SST 09640-10010 (09641-01010, 09641-01030, 09641-01060)
      NOTE: Check that the valve of the SST is in the open position. 
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:

  • • 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.