Notice: If the power steering system has been serviced, an accurate fluid level reading cannot be obtained unless air is bled from the steering system. The air in the fluid may cause pump cavitation noise and may cause pump damage over a period of time.

Notice: Do not start the vehicle with any power steering gear inlet or outlet hoses disconnected. When disconnected, plug or cap all openings of components. Failure to do so could result in contamination or loss of power steering fluid and damage to the system.

The power steering system consists of 3 components:

The power steering pump is a vane-type pump providing hydraulic pressure for the system and is powered by the engine. It draws on the power steering fluid reservoir, which in turn is connected to the power steering gear. A pressure-relief valve inside the flow control valve limits the pump pressure. The power steering rack and pinion gear has a rotary control valve, which directs hydraulic fluid coming from the power steering pump to one side or the other side of the rack piston. The integral rack piston is attached to the rack. The rack piston converts hydraulic pressure to a linear force, which moves the rack to the left or the right. The force is then transmitted through the inner and the outer tie rods to the steering knuckles, which turn the wheels.