GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Important: The following steps must be completed before using the symptom tables:

  1. Determine if the vehicle is equipped with an electrically assisted variable effort system. Perform electrical diagnosis before proceeding with mechanical diagnosis. Refer to Diagnostic Starting Point - Variable Effort Steering .
  2. Review the system description and operation in order to familiarize yourself with the system functions. Refer to Power Steering System Description and Operation .

Visual/Physical Inspection

    • Inspect for aftermarket devices which could affect the operation of the power steering system.
    • Inspect the easily accessible or visible system components for obvious damage or conditions which could cause the symptom.
    • Inspect for leaking power steering components. If necessary, refer to Power Steering Fluid Leaks .
    • Verify the power steering reservoir for the proper operating specification. Refer to Checking and Adding Power Steering Fluid .
    • Inspect the power steering fluid for the following indications of contamination:
       - Milky fluid - water
       - Brown fluid - burnt
       - Debris in fluid - plastic or dirt
    • If necessary, flush the power steering system. Refer to Power Steering System Bleeding .

Symptoms List

Refer to a symptom diagnostic procedure from the following list in order to diagnose the symptom:

    •  Power Steering Fluid Leaks
    •  Rattle, Clunk, or Shudder Noise from the Power Steering System
    •  Whine or Growl Noise from the Power Steering System
    •  Steering Effort Hard or Too Easy in One or Both Directions