Pinpoint Test C: Steering System Drift/Pull/Wander

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 Mercury Milan, 2011 Lincoln MKZ, and 2011 Ford Fusion. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

C1 CHECK THE STEERING COLUMN SHAFT
NOTE: Be sure to keep the clockspring centered when disconnecting the intermediate shaft. Refer to the appropriate BODY article for the procedure.
- Check the steering column shaft for grounding.
- Disconnect the steering column shaft at the steering column.
- Inspect the steering column shaft U-joints for looseness or wear.
- Are the steering column shaft U-joints OK?
  - Yes : GO to C2 .
  - No : INSTALL a new steering column shaft as necessary. REFER to STEERING COLUMN article.
C2 CHECK THE STEERING GEAR MOUNTING
- Check the steering gear mounts for looseness or wear.
- Are the steering gear mounts OK?
  - Yes : GO to C3 .
  - No : INSTALL a new steering gear as necessary. REFER to POWER STEERING SYSTEM article.
C3 CHECK THE STEERING GEAR
- Carry out the STEERING GEAR VALVE COMPONENT TEST in this service information.
- Is the steering gear valve OK?
  - Yes : REFER to SUSPENSION SYSTEM - GENERAL INFORMATION article to diagnose suspension system drift/pull/wander.
  - No : INSTALL a new steering gear as necessary. REFER to POWER STEERING SYSTEM article.