GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Torque Steer

Step

Action

Yes

No

DEFINITION: On a dry, smooth, flat road, the vehicle has a left or right force on the steering during acceleration. Shifting into NEUTRAL eliminates the force on the steering. The amount of torque from the engine usually, but not always, determines the amount of force on the steering.

1

Did you review the system descriptions and perform the necessary inspections?

Go to Step 2

Go to Symptoms - Suspension General Diagnosis

2

  1. Drive the vehicle on a straight, smooth, flat road.
  2. Press the accelerator and momentarily release the steering wheel.
  3. Repeat this test with the vehicle traveling in the opposite direction in order to eliminate crosswind effects. Lead/pull caused by unlevel roads and crosswinds are considered normal.

Does the vehicle exhibit torque steer when you press the accelerator?

Go to Step 3

System OK

3

  1. Drive the vehicle on a straight, smooth, flat road at 64-97 km/h (40-60 mph).
  2. Remove your foot from the accelerator.
  3. Shift the transmission into NEUTRAL in order to allow the vehicle to coast.
  4. Momentarily release the steering wheel and note any change in the direction of the vehicle.
  5. Repeat this test with the vehicle traveling in the opposite direction in order to eliminate crosswind effects. Lead/pull caused by unlevel roads and crosswinds are considered normal.

Does the vehicle direction change when you momentarily release the steering wheel?

Go to Vehicle Leads/Pulls

Go to Step 4

4

  1. Inspect the front suspension components for wear or damage.
  2. Replace components as necessary. Refer to the following procedures:
  3. •  Fastener Tightening Specifications in Front Suspension
    •  Stabilizer Shaft Replacement in Front Suspension
    •  Stabilizer Shaft Link Replacement in Front Suspension
    •  Stabilizer Shaft Insulator Replacement in Front Suspension
    •  Lower Control Arm Replacement in Front Suspension
    •  Strut Assembly Replacement in Front Suspension

Did you find and correct the condition?

Go to Step 7

Go to Step 5

5

Inspect the vehicle trim height. Refer to Trim Height Inspection .

Did you find and correct the condition?

Go to Step 7

Go to Step 6

6

Inspect the powertrain mounts for wear or damage. Replace the mounts as necessary. Refer to Engine Mount Inspection in Engine Mechanical - 1.8L (LV6) or to Engine Mount Inspection in Engine Mechanical - 1.8L (LNK).

Did you complete the inspection/repair?

Go to Step 7

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7

Operate the vehicle in order to verify the repair.

Did you correct the condition?

System OK

Go to Step 3