Steering Wheel Effort Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Mazda 6. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Inspect the following points:
- Tire size and tire pressure
- Fluid level
- Drive belt deflection
With the vehicle on a hard, level surface, put the wheels in the straight-ahead position.
Remove the air bag module.
WARNING:
- Handling the air bag module improperly can accidentally deploy the air bag module, which may seriously injure you. Read AIR BAG SYSTEM WARNINGS before handling the air bag module. (See AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS .)
Start the engine and warm the power steering fluid to 50-60 °C {122-140 °F}.
Measure the steering wheel effort using a torque wrench.
- If not within the specification, verify the following:
  - No air in steering system
  - No fluid leakage at hose or connectors
  - Function of oil pump and steering gear
Steering wheel effort
1. 7.8 N.m {80 kgf.cm, 58 in.lbf} max.
NOTE:
- To determine whether the steering effort is satisfactory or not, perform the inspection on another vehicle of the same model and under the same conditions, and compare the results.
- The steering wheel effort varies with the following conditions.
  - Road conditions, such as dry or wet, and asphalt or concrete.
  - Tire conditions, such as brand, wear, and tire pressure.