GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Problem

Action

The pressure plate is not flat against the cam ring.

  1. Replace the power steering pump. Refer to Power Steering Pump Replacement .
  2. Flush the power steering system. Refer to Power Steering System Flushing .

The cam ring is extremely worn.

  1. Replace the power steering pump. Refer to Power Steering Pump Replacement .
  2. Flush the power steering system. Refer to Power Steering System Flushing .

The pressure plate, thrust plate, or rotor is scored.

  1. Replace the power steering pump. Refer to Power Steering Pump Replacement .
  2. Flush the power steering system. Refer to Power Steering System Flushing .

The vanes are sticking in the rotor slots.

  1. Replace the power steering pump. Refer to Power Steering Pump Replacement .
  2. Flush the power steering system. Refer to Power Steering System Flushing .

The vanes are not installed properly.

  1. Replace the power steering pump. Refer to Power Steering Pump Replacement .
  2. Flush the power steering system. Refer to Power Steering System Flushing .

There is air in the power steering fluid.

  1. Locate and repair the leak. Refer to External Leakage Check .
  2. Bleed the power steering system. Refer to Power Steering System Bleeding .

The power steering fluid level is low.

Check and add power steering fluid, if necessary. Refer to Checking and Adding Power Steering Fluid .

The pump belt is slipping.

Inspect the drive belt for wear. Refer to Drive Belt Tensioner Diagnosis in Engine Mechanical.

The hoses or steering gear is damaged.

    • Inspect the power steering hoses and replace, if necessary. Refer to Power Steering Hoses Replacement and Power Steering Hoses Replacement .
    • Inspect the power steering gear for damage and replace, if necessary. Refer to Steering Gear Replacement .

The flow control valve is stuck or inoperative.

Remove and clean or replace the valve. Refer to Power Steering Pump Flow Control Valve Replacement - Off Vehicle .