2004 Nissan Xterra No power steering

Tiny
TEXASTURKEY
  • MEMBER
  • 2004 NISSAN XTERRA
  • 6 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 78,000 MILES
I have a 2004 Xterra that has no working power steering. It just went out. I checked the fluid level and it is good. The pulley is moving but the pump does not seem to be generating any pressure. At 140 for a pump I would like to be sure before I change it. What kind of checks should I run?
Monday, September 27th, 2010 AT 7:20 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
BLUELIGHTNIN6
  • MECHANIC
  • 16,542 POSTS
Check the fluid levels of your vehicle first. Add power steering fluid if necessary before you proceed any further.

Connect the power steering pump and hose to the pressure gauge and shutoff valve. Fit the hose to the power steering pump correctly. Make sure the shutoff valve is open before test the power steering pump.

Idle the engine while turning the steering wheel all the way to the right and all the way to the left to release any air from the power steering pump.

Close the shutoff valve to check system pressure for about 5 seconds. If the shutoff valve is closed longer than 5 seconds, your power steering pump can overheat and this can cause damage to the pump itself.

Compare the pressure reading against the manufacturer's specifications. If the pressure is within limits, your power steering pump is working correctly and you're ready to roll.

Troubleshoot if the pressure reading is not the same as the manufacturers specifications. Consult the manual for your vehicle or for your power steering pump (if you just installed a new one) to determine the source of any further problems.
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Tuesday, September 28th, 2010 AT 12:23 PM
Tiny
TEXASTURKEY
  • MEMBER
  • 11 POSTS
Can I borrow one of the pressure gauges at the auto store or do I need to purchase one?
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Tuesday, September 28th, 2010 AT 1:02 PM
Tiny
BLUELIGHTNIN6
  • MECHANIC
  • 16,542 POSTS
Not sure, you will have to check with your local stores. Some specialty tools they will rent out but not sure about this one as it's not really a specialty tool.
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Tuesday, September 28th, 2010 AT 1:21 PM

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