Steering Wheel Effort Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Mazda RX-8. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Verify that the equipped tire size and tire air pressure is as specified.
With the vehicle on a hard, level surface, put the wheels in the straight-ahead position.
WARNING:
- Handling the air bag module improperly can accidentally deploy the air bag module, which may seriously injure you. Read the service warnings before handling the air bag module. (See AIR BAG SAFETY PRECAUTIONS .)
Remove the air bag module.
Start the engine and idle it.
Verify that the EPS warning light does not illuminate.
Inspect the steering wheel effort using a torque wrench.

If it exceeds the reference value, adjust the steering gear and linkage. (See STEERING GEAR AND LINKAGE ADJUSTMENT .)

Reference value

5.0 N.m {50 kgf.cm, 44 in.lbf} or less

Fig 1: Inspecting Steering Wheel Effort

Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.

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 conditions indicated below.
- Road conditions: such as dry or wet, asphalt or concrete
- Tire conditions: such as brand, wear, and tire air pressure