Power Steering System Check Checklist

This power steering system inspection checklist provides systematic diagnosis of both hydraulic power steering (HPS) and electric power steering (EPS) systems to identify fluid leaks, pump failure, steering rack wear, and electronic faults. Aligned with ASE A4 (Suspension and Steering) certification standards and OEM power steering service specifications. Perform this inspection whenever steering effort changes, noise is reported, or fluid loss is detected.

Industry: Automotive Service
Frequency: Per Customer Complaint / Annual
Estimated Time: 20-30 minutes
Role: ASE A4-Certified Technician
Total Items: 28
Compliance: ASE A4 Suspension & Steering Standards, OEM Power Steering Fluid Specifications, FMVSS 203 / 204 (Steering System), SAE J1974 Power Steering Standards, EPA Used Fluid Disposal Requirements

Fluid Level & Reservoir Condition (HPS)

Inspect power steering fluid level, condition, and reservoir for hydraulic systems. Degraded fluid causes pump and rack wear.

Power steering fluid at correct level on dipstick or MIN/MAX marks (cold or warm as required)?
Fluid color acceptable - not dark brown/black or foamy?
Correct power steering fluid type verified for this vehicle (not universal in vehicles requiring specific OEM fluid)?
Reservoir and cap gasket in good condition - no cracks or external leaks?
Power steering fluid service interval checked - flush recommended if over 50,000 miles or 5 years?

Power Steering Pump & Hose Inspection (HPS)

Inspect pump operation and all hydraulic hoses for proper function and leaks.

Pump produces adequate pressure - no excessive effort needed for full lock steering?
Pump operates quietly with no whine, groan, or moaning at full lock?
High-pressure hose and fittings free of leaks, swelling, and damage?
Low-pressure return hose soft, undamaged, and free of leaks?
No power steering fluid leaks at pump, hoses, fittings, or rack?

Steering Rack / Gear Inspection

Inspect steering rack or gear for leaks, play, and proper operation.

Steering rack boots intact - not torn, cracked, or filled with fluid?
Steering has correct on-center feel - not vague, wander, or excessive free play?
No binding or tight spots throughout full steering travel?
Vehicle steers smoothly to full lock both directions without hitting bump stops?
Inner tie rod ball joints (through rack boot) checked for play with boot flex method?
Steering rack mounting bolts tight - no movement of rack under steering load?

Electric Power Steering (EPS) Diagnostics

For EPS-equipped vehicles, verify electronic system operation and fault codes.

EPS warning light off after startup - no active steering system faults?
EPS module scanned for codes - all codes documented and diagnosed?
Steering assist feels normal - not heavy (low assist) or overly light (excessive assist)?
Battery voltage adequate for EPS operation (under 11V causes EPS to reduce assist)?

Steering Service Documentation

Document all steering system findings and recommendations.

Power steering fluid topped off to correct level (HPS) if low?
Any steering fluid leaks located, photographed, and documented on repair order?
Any safety-critical steering findings communicated in writing to customer?
Repair estimate provided for all identified steering system deficiencies?
Road test completed verifying steering concern addressed or improvement documented?
Steering effort normal at low and high speeds after any service performed?
No steering pull verified on straight road test (separate from alignment)?
Power steering fluid flush recommended if fluid degraded or system opened?

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Why Use This Power Steering System Check Checklist?

This power steering system check checklist helps automotive service teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for ase a4-certified technician professionals, this checklist covers 28 critical inspection points across 5 sections. Recommended frequency: per customer complaint / annual.

Ensures compliance with ASE A4 Suspension & Steering Standards, OEM Power Steering Fluid Specifications, FMVSS 203 / 204 (Steering System), SAE J1974 Power Steering Standards, EPA Used Fluid Disposal Requirements, UK MOT Steering System Standards, India CMVR Steering Regulations. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Power Steering System Check Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 28 inspection items across 5 sections: Fluid Level & Reservoir Condition (HPS), Power Steering Pump & Hose Inspection (HPS), Steering Rack / Gear Inspection, Electric Power Steering (EPS) Diagnostics, Steering Service Documentation. It is designed for automotive service operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed per customer complaint / annual. Each completion takes approximately 20-30 minutes.

Who should use this Power Steering System Check Checklist?

This checklist is designed for ASE A4-Certified Technician professionals in the automotive service industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.