Pinpoint Tests R: Steering Column Mounted EPAS - Excessive Steering Wheel Play
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2015 Ford F-150. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
This test generates a RVC for a new component when directed to do so from the pinpoint test. A RVC is required to document billing for payment.
NOTE:
This pinpoint test is intended to diagnose vehicles with steering column mounted EPAS systems only. Do not use this pinpoint test to diagnose vehicles with steering gear mounted EPAS systems.
- R1: CHECK THE STEERING COLUMN SHAFT FASTENERS
- Check the steering column assembly for loose fasteners.
- Check the steering gear for loose fasteners, worn or damaged bushings.
- Are the fasteners and bushings in good condition?
Yes No Go to R2. For loose fasteners:
TIGHTEN the fasteners as necessary.
REFER to specifications in Power Steering and Steering Column as necessary.
For worn steering gear bushing(s):
INSTALL a new Steering Gear assembly.
REFER to Power Steering .
If this is a Ford paid repair, INCLUDE the RVC on the warranty claim form.
When complete, SELECT the "X" in the top right corner to CLOSE this procedure.
- R2: CHECK THE STEERING COLUMN SHAFT U-JOINTS NOTE: The steering column must be locked in the straight ahead position before the steering column is disconnected from the steering gear to prevent damage to the steering wheel clockspring.
- Inspect the steering column shaft U-joints for looseness or wear.
- Are the steering column shaft U-joints in good condition?
Yes No Go to R3. INSTALL a new Steering Column Shaft.
REFER to Steering Column .
When complete, SELECT the "X" in the top right corner to CLOSE this procedure.
- R3: CHECK THE OUTER TIE RODS FOR MOVEMENT
- With the transmission in NEUTRAL, position the vehicle on a hoist. Refer to Jacking And Lifting .
- Using hand force only, check the outer tie rods for vertical and lateral movement in the tie-rod ball studs/sockets.
- Are the outer tie rods free from any vertical and/or lateral movement?
Yes No Go to R4. INSTALL a new Outer tie rod(s).
REFER to Power Steering .
If this is a Ford paid repair, INCLUDE the RVC on the warranty claim form.
- R4: CHECK THE INNER TIE RODS FOR MOVEMENT
- Remove the steering gear bellows boots. Refer to Inner Tie Rod Removal and Installation in Power Steering .
- Using hand force only, check the inner tie rods for vertical and lateral movement in the tie-rod ball studs/sockets.
- Are the inner tie rods free from any vertical and/or lateral movement?
Yes No Go to R5. INSTALL a new Inner tie rod(s).
REFER to Power Steering .
If this is a Ford paid repair, INCLUDE the RVC on the warranty claim form.
- R5: CHECK THE SUSPENSION BALL JOINTS AND BUSHINGS FOR DAMAGE, SECURITY, EXCESSIVE FREE PLAY AND IMPEDED MOVEMENT
- Check the suspension ball joints and bushings for damage, security, excessive free play and impeded movement.
- Has a concern been identified?
Yes No REPAIR as necessary. INSTALL a new Steering Gear assembly.
REFER to Power Steering .
If this is a Ford paid repair, INCLUDE the RVC on the warranty claim form.
When complete, SELECT the "X" in the top right corner to CLOSE this procedure.