Steering Force Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2016 Mazda CX-5. 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.
Remove the driver-side air bag module. (See DRIVER-SIDE AIR BAG MODULE REMOVAL/INSTALLATION [TWO-STEP DEPLOYMENT CONTROL SYSTEM] .) (See DRIVER-SIDE AIR BAG MODULE REMOVAL/INSTALLATION [STANDARD DEPLOYMENT CONTROL SYSTEM] .)
WARNING:
- Handling the air bag module improperly can accidentally operate (deploy) the air bag module, which may seriously injure you. Read the service warnings and cautions before handling the air bag module. (See AIR BAG SYSTEM SERVICE WARNINGS [TWO-STEP DEPLOYMENT CONTROL SYSTEM] .) (See AIR BAG SYSTEM SERVICE WARNINGS [STANDARD DEPLOYMENT CONTROL SYSTEM] .) (See AIR BAG SYSTEM SERVICE CAUTIONS [TWO-STEP DEPLOYMENT CONTROL SYSTEM] .) (See AIR BAG SYSTEM SERVICE CAUTIONS [STANDARD DEPLOYMENT CONTROL SYSTEM] .)
Start the engine and idle it.
Verify that the power steering malfunction indicator light is not illuminated or flashing.
Inspect the steering torque using a torque wrench.

Fig 1: Inspecting Steering Torque Using Torque Wrench
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
- If it exceeds the reference value, inspect the steering gear and linkage. (See STEERING GEAR AND LINKAGE INSPECTION .)
  Steering wheel steering force (reference)
- 7.8 N.m {80 kgf.cm, 69 in.lbf} or less

NOTE:

Comparing another vehicle of the same model under the same conditions is an acceptable inspection method.
The steering torque varies with the conditions indicated below.
- Road conditions: Such as dry, wet, asphalt, or concrete
- Tire condition: Such as brand, wear, and tire pressure