The power steering gear is binding.

Inspect for correct rack bearing preload. Refer to Steering Gear Rack Bearing Preload Adjustment - Off Vehicle .

The power steering gear is catching.

1. Inspect the power steering gear for proper bearing preload. Refer to Steering Gear Rack Bearing Preload Adjustment - Off Vehicle .
2. Inspect the power steering gear. Refer to Power Steering System Inspection .
3. Replace the power steering components as needed. Refer to Steering Gear Replacement .

The power steering fluid is low.

Inspect for internal leaking in the power steering components. Refer to Power Steering Gear and Pump Leaks .

The plastic boot on the intermediate steering shaft is out of position.

1. Inspect the intermediate steering shaft. Refer to Intermediate Steering Shaft Replacement in Steering Wheel and Column-Tilt.
2. Repair or replace components as needed. Refer to Intermediate Steering Shaft Replacement in Steering Wheel and Column-Tilt.

The intermediate steering shaft bolt torque is too high.

Tighten the intermediate steering shaft bolt to specification. Refer to Intermediate Steering Shaft Replacement in Steering Wheel and Column-Tilt.

The internal pump or steering gear is leaking excessively .

1. Inspect the internal pump or the power steering gear. Refer to the appropriate procedure:

•	Power Steering Pump Replacement

•	Steering Gear Replacement

2. Repair the internal pump or the steering gear, as needed. Refer to the appropriate procedure:

•	Power Steering Pump Replacement

•	Steering Gear Replacement

The power steering pump pressure is insufficient.

1. Inspect the pump pressure. Refer to Power Steering Gear and Pump Leaks .
2. Repair the pump, as needed. Refer to Power Steering Pump Replacement .

The steering column joints are loose or worn.

1. Inspect the steering column joints for the correct torque.
2. Replace the components as necessary. Refer to Intermediate Steering Shaft Replacement in Steering Wheel and Column-Tilt.

The steering gear valve is sticking.

1. Flush the power steering system. Refer to Power Steering System Flushing .
2. Bleed the power steering system. Refer to Power Steering System Bleeding .
3. If the symptom persists, service the power steering gear. Refer to the appropriate procedure:

•	Power Steering Pump Replacement

•	Steering Gear Replacement

The power steering fluid is thick.

1. In the cold weather, the fluid has the following characteristics:

•

Thickens

•	Resists movement through the system

2. For temperatures -12°C (10°F) or lower perform the following steps:

•	Drain the power steering system. Refer to Draining the Power Steering System .

•	Flush the power steering system. Refer to Power Steering System Flushing .

•	Refill with GM Low Temperature Climate Service Fluid or equivalent. Refer to Refilling the Power Steering System .