GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Step

Action

Yes

No

DEFINITION: Driver is unable to maintain consistent, predictable vehicle driving control in any direction.

1

Did you review the General Description and perform the necessary inspections?

Go to Step 2

Go to Diagnostic Starting Point - Suspension General Diagnosis

2

Verify that the directional stability is poor.

Does the system operate normally?

System OK

Go to Step 3

3

  1. Ensure that the tires are all the same size, make, and adequate tread depth.
  2. Repair as necessary.
  3. Ensure that all of the tires are inflated to the correct pressure. Refer to Tire Inflation Pressure Specifications in Maintenance and Lubrication.

Does the vehicle still exhibit poor directional stability?

Go to Step 4

System OK

4

  1. Inspect the stabilizer shaft, links, and insulators for wear or damage.
  2. Replace as necessary.
  3. • Refer to Stabilizer Shaft Replacement in Front Suspension.
    • Refer to Stabilizer Shaft Link Replacement in Front Suspension.

Does the vehicle still exhibit poor directional stability?

Go to Step 5

System OK

5

  1. Inspect the front axle, king pins, king pin bushings, and steering Linkage for wear or damage.
  2. Repair as necessary.
  3. • Refer to Front Axle Replacement in Front Suspension.
    • Refer to Steering Knuckle and King Pin Replacement in Front Suspension.
    • Refer to King Pin Bushing and Bearing Cup Replacement in Front Suspension.
    • Refer to Steering Linkage Inspection in Steering Linkage.

Does the vehicle still exhibit poor directional stability?

Go to Step 6

System OK

6

Inspect the wheel bearings/hubs for looseness or excessive lateral runout. Refer to Wheel Bearings Diagnosis

Does the vehicle still exhibit poor directional stability?

Go to Step 7

System OK

7

  1. Inspect the vehicle trim height. Refer to Trim Height Inspection .
  2. Repair as necessary.

Does the vehicle still exhibit poor directional stability?

Go to Step 8

System OK

8

Inspect and adjust the wheel alignment as necessary. Refer to Front Caster Adjustment or Front Camber Adjustment or Front Toe Adjustment in Wheel Alignment.

Does the vehicle still exhibit poor directional stability?

Go to Step 9

System OK

9

  1. Inspect the steering gear and steering column for looseness.
  2. Repair as necessary.

Did you complete the repair?

Go to Step 10

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10

Operate the vehicle in order to verify the repair.

Did you correct the condition?

System OK

Go to Step 3