How to Troubleshoot the Steering System in a Chevy Silverado

The Chevy Silverado is a popular truck in GM's line of full-sized pickups. Because of its high wheel-base you want your Silverado to steer straight and stably; so, you should keep the steering system in the best condition you can. Troubleshooting the steering system is the same for all model years.

Instructions

1. Inspect the steering system every 6 months for signs of wear and damage, especially if you put a lot of stress on the frame and undercarriage. Look for loose hoses (which can leak air into the power steering fluid), fluid leaks and signs of wear in the linkage system, gearbox and boots.

2. Keep on top of wheel alignment and tire wear. Many common steering problems are traceable to misaligned front-ends, uneven tire pressure and unbalanced wheels. Rotate your tires every 7500 miles.

3. Check power steering fluid levels regularly and make sure the fluid is clean. GM requires you to use power steering fluid rather than ATM fluid, but only recommends using its brand. Make sure the hoses don't touch any other engine or truck components to keep them from heat and wear.

4. Raise your front wheels with the engine running if your car experiences steady pull to one side of the road. If the pull stops with the wheels raised the problem is most likely with the leaks in the power steering control valve or a faulty steering gear. If the pull continues the problem isn't with the power steering but with worn linkage, bent struts, the rear axle or the brakes.

5. Inspect the linkage if the car wanders or drifts to one side. Look at the tie-rod ends and sockets, rack and pinion, steering column couplings and even the rack mounts. You may also need to adjust the wheel bearings.

6. Look at the control arm bushings as well as the tie rod ends and sockets if the vehicle pulls to the side during hard acceleration. Technically torque steer is really caused by variable drive shaft lengths in front-wheel steering systems. However, it can be improved by tightening or replacing worn linkage parts, control arm bushings and/or transaxle mounts.