Power Steering System Inspection and Service Checklist

This power steering system inspection checklist covers both hydraulic power steering (HPS) and electric power steering (EPS) systems to diagnose steering concerns including noise, hard steering, fluid leaks, and steering wander. Loss of power steering assist creates dangerous driving conditions especially at low speeds and parking maneuvers. Aligned with SAE J2716 power steering standards and OEM diagnostic procedures.

Industry: Automotive Service
Frequency: Annually / Per Steering Concern
Estimated Time: 25-35 minutes
Role: ASE A4-Certified Technician / Suspension & Steering Specialist
Total Items: 28
Compliance: ASE A4 Suspension & Steering Certification, SAE J2716 Power Steering System Standards, FMVSS 203 (Steering Wheel Impact Protection), OEM Power Steering Service Requirements, NHTSA Steering System Safety Standards

Hydraulic Power Steering Fluid and Pump (HPS only)

Inspect hydraulic fluid condition and power steering pump operation.

Power steering fluid level at correct mark when engine is off and fluid is warm?
Fluid color acceptable (clear red or amber - not dark brown or black)?
No foam or bubbles in power steering reservoir (indicates air in system)?
Power steering pump quiet with no whining, groaning, or grinding noise at idle and during turns?
Power steering hoses and connections dry with no fluid seepage or leaks?

Steering Rack and Pinion Inspection

Inspect rack and pinion assembly for leaks, play, and proper operation.

Rack and pinion boots intact with no cracks, tears, or grease leakage?
No power steering fluid leaking from rack housing or end seals?
Inner and outer tie rod ends tight with no play when pushed and pulled vertically?
Rack mounting bushings and bolts tight with no looseness or clunking?
Steering wheel turns smoothly lock-to-lock with no binding or tight spots?

Electric Power Steering Diagnosis (EPS only)

Diagnose electric power steering assist concerns with scan tool and testing.

No EPS warning light illuminated on instrument cluster?
EPS module scanned for fault codes with comprehensive scan tool?
EPS motor current draw within specification during steering input?
Steering torque sensor reading plausible values and responding to steering input?
Vehicle battery voltage above 12.4V (low voltage causes EPS faults and reduced assist)?

Steering Linkage and Column Inspection

Inspect steering column, intermediate shaft, and mechanical linkage components.

Steering column secured properly to dash with no looseness or clunking?
Intermediate shaft U-joints tight with no play or clunking during steering input?
No clicking, popping, or rubbing noise from steering column during turns?
Steering wheel centered when driving straight with no pull to either side?
Steering wheel freeplay less than 2 inches before wheels respond to input?

Road Test and Service Documentation

Road test steering system and document all findings and recommendations.

Road test confirms steering operates correctly with proper assist at all speeds?
Vehicle tracks straight with no pull to either side on level road?
Steering wheel returns to center normally after turns (not too fast or too slow)?
All steering system findings documented with failed components identified?
Four-wheel alignment recommended if any steering or suspension components are replaced?
Power steering fluid flush recommended if fluid is dark or contaminated?
EPS software updates checked and applied if TSB or recall available?
Complete steering system service documented with test results and recommendations?

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Why Use This Power Steering System Inspection and Service Checklist?

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

Ensures compliance with ASE A4 Suspension & Steering Certification, SAE J2716 Power Steering System Standards, FMVSS 203 (Steering Wheel Impact Protection), OEM Power Steering Service Requirements, NHTSA Steering System Safety Standards, UK MOT Steering System Requirements, India CMVR AIS-013 Steering System Standards. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Power Steering System Inspection and Service Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 28 inspection items across 5 sections: Hydraulic Power Steering Fluid and Pump (HPS only), Steering Rack and Pinion Inspection, Electric Power Steering Diagnosis (EPS only), Steering Linkage and Column Inspection, Road Test and Service Documentation. It is designed for automotive service operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed annually / per steering concern. Each completion takes approximately 25-35 minutes.

Who should use this Power Steering System Inspection and Service Checklist?

This checklist is designed for ASE A4-Certified Technician / Suspension & Steering Specialist 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.