Steering system
Precautions Troubleshooting Inspection
STEERING COLUMN
STEERING SYSTEM
PRECAUTIONS
1. SRS airbag system handling and precautions for operation
CAUTION:
As this maintenance procedure may have an effect on the SRS airbag system, be sure to check the SRS airbag system precautions before commencing work. (Refer to 
)
)2. Correct handling and precautions for operation
(1) Handling of the steering computer ASSY
(a) Do not apply any impact to the steering column ASSY (particularly the motor and torque sensor parts). Be sure to replace with a new part if strong impact is applied (such as hitting or dropping the part).
(b) Do not pull on the steering column ASSY wiring harness.
(c) Do not release the tilt lever while the steering column ASSY is removed from the vehicle.
(d) After replacing the steering column ASSY, perform torque sensor zero point calibration and rotation angle sensor output calibration. (Refer to )
)(2) Precautions when connecting or disconnecting connectors
(a) Before you disconnect any connectors related to the electric power steering system, turn the ignition to IG ON and set the steering to the straight-ahead position. Disconnect the connector after turning the ignition to IG OFF.
(b) Before you connect any connectors related to the electric power steering system, confirm that the ignition is turned to IG OFF, connect the connector and turn the ignition to IG ON while the steering is in the straight-ahead position.
CAUTION:
Do not turn the ignition to IG ON if the steering is not in the straight-ahead position.
(3) Steering roll connector precautions
(a) Do not install/remove the steering roll connector SUB-ASSY while the ignition is set to IG ON or the battery ground terminal is connected.
(b) Do not rotate the steering roll connector SUB-ASSY without the steering wheel ASSY attached while the ignition is set to IG ON and the battery ground terminal is connected.
(c) When attaching the steering roll connector SUB-ASSY and steering wheel ASSY, be sure to carry out steering roll connector SUB-ASSY centering. (Refer to )
)CAUTION:
If centering is not carried out, the steering roll connector SUB-ASSY may become disconnected upon operation of the steering wheel ASSY.
ON-VEHICLE INSPECTION
1. Check of steering wheel play
(1) Start the engine and place the vehicle in a state where power steering can operate.
(2) Place the vehicle in the straight-ahead position.
(3) Lightly move the steering wheel ASSY with your fingers to check for play.
Limit
: Within 30 mm {1.18 in}
NOTE:
If it exceeds this limit, refer to the symptom table and check each appropriate part. (Refer to )
)SYMPTOM TABLE
Steering (mechanical factors) symptom table
| Symptoms |
Inspection items |
Reference pages |
|---|---|---|
| Steering operation is heavy |
Front tires (improperly inflated, uneven wear) |
|
| Front wheel alignment (improper) |
|
|
| Front suspension (lower ball joint) |
|
|
| Steering column ASSY |
|
|
| Steering gear ASSY |
|
|
| Power steering computer power supply voltage |
|
|
| Power steering computer ASSY |
|
|
| The presence of continued operation under high load or dry steering |
- |
|
| Poor steering wheel return to center |
Front tires (improperly inflated, uneven wear) |
|
| Front wheel alignment (improper) |
|
|
| Steering column ASSY |
|
|
| Steering gear ASSY |
|
|
| Power steering computer ASSY |
|
|
| Steering exhibits no or excess play |
Steering intermediate shaft ASSY No.2 |
|
| Steering column ASSY |
|
|
| There is a thumping noise during power steering operation, when the steering wheel returns to the neutral position |
Steering intermediate shaft ASSY No.2 |
|
| Front suspension (lower ball joint) |
|
|
| Front axle hub (hub bearing) |
|
|
| Steering gear ASSY |
|
|
| There is a rubbing sound when the steering wheel is turned during slow driving |
Steering column ASSY |
|
| Steering roll connector |
|
|
| Rubbing of the steering wheel and the column cover |
|
|
| An abnormal high-pitched squeaking sound occurs when the steering wheel is slowly turned when the vehicle is stopped |
Steering column ASSY |
|
| Steering wheel installation condition |
|
|
| The steering wheel vibrates (accompanied with a noise) during dry steering |
Steering column ASSY |
|
| Steering wheel installation condition |
|
|
| P / S warning light remains ON |
Refer to the flow chart |
|