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Home >> Ford >> 2000 >> Taurus LX, 3.0 2, AX4N >> Repair and Diagnosis >> External Pages >> Different car >> Section 1361 (Steering System - Hydraulic Power Assist Steering (HPAS)) >> Diagnosis And Testing >> Steering System >> Pinpoint Tests >> Pinpoint Test A: Steering Has Lack of Assist or Inconsistent Assist >> Pinpoint Test A: Steering Has Lack Of Assist Or Inconsistent Assist

Pinpoint Test A: Steering Has Lack Of Assist Or Inconsistent Assist

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 Mercury Milan, 2010 Lincoln MKZ, and 2010 Ford Fusion. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. A1 CHECK FOR FLUID CONTAMINATION 
    • Check the power steering fluid for contamination.
    • Is there any fluid contamination? 
  1. A2 CHECK THE STEERING ASSIST WITH THE ENGINE RPM RAISED 
    • Connect the scan tool.
    • Enter the following diagnostic mode on the scan tool: DataLogger - PCM.
    • Using the engine revolutions per minute (RPM) active command, set the engine at 2,100 rpm and then turn the steering wheel fully to the left and right.
      NOTE: Do not hold the steering wheel at the stops for an extended amount of time. Damage to the power steering pump may occur.
    • Is the steering assist normal with the engine rpm raised? 
  1. A3 CHECK FOR A CHANGE OF ASSIST ON LEFT AND RIGHT TURNS 
    • With the engine at idle, turn the steering wheel fully to the left and to the right.
    • Does the steering assist change when turning from right to left? 
  1. A4 CHECK THE STEERING LINES AND HOSES FOR RESTRICTIONS 
    • Inspect the steering lines and hoses for damage, kinks or restrictions.
    • Are the steering lines or hoses damaged, kinked or restricted? 
  1. A5 MONITOR THE ENGINE RPM CHANGES 
    NOTE: Do not hold the steering wheel at the stops for an extended amount of time. Damage to the power steering pump may occur.
    NOTE: Make sure that the vehicle is on a flat, dry surface, all accessories are in the OFF position and that the steering system is at normal operating temperature.
    • Enter the following diagnostic mode on the scan tool: DataLogger - PCM.
    • Start the engine.
    • With the engine at idle, raise the power steering fluid temperature to 74-80°C (165-176°F) by rotating the steering wheel fully to the left and right several times.
    • While monitoring the engine revolutions per minute (RPM) PID, turn the steering wheel quickly to the left stop position and then to the right stop position.
    • Note the engine rpm during the turns.
    • Does the engine rpm change (even temporarily) more than 30 rpm when turning the steering wheel? 
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