How to Troubleshoot the Steering System in a Kia Spectra

Kia launched the Spectra as a hatchback in 2001 and it has evolved into a compact family car. Also known as the Cerato and Kia Forte, the car became Kia's top seller in the U.S. after a 2004 redesign. Troubleshooting your Spectra's steering system should be no more difficult than troubleshooting a compact American car if you know what to look for.

Things You'll Need

• PSF 3 power steering fluid (or PSF 4 with models after 2007)

Instructions

1. Service the steering operation and linkage every 30,000 miles. It's best to avoid costly repairs with regular service and lubrication. Your Kia dealer can also lubricate parts and spot signs of excessive wear.

2. Top off power steering fluid if the levels drop and look for leaks. If the fluid drops too low you can burn your pump. Use PSF 3 power steering fluid (or PSF 4 with models after 2007). Let the fluid settle, then start the engine and let the fluid settle again. Check for aeration and contamination.

3. Stay on top of your tires and wheels. Bad alignment and poor tire condition cause most steering problems, especially steering wheel vibration and hard steering. Rotate and balance your tires, keep the pressure even and check alignment on a regular basis.

4. Inspect the wheel bearings, shocks and ball joints if other steering system diagnostics don't correct the problem. Loose or worn components can cause the wheel to turn loosely or cause the car to wander when steering straight.

5. Check the power steering pump if your wheel is difficult to turn and you've maintained the fluid levels and tire condition. The belt may be loose, or you may not have enough pressure to pump the fluid.

6. Look at the brakes and front end parts if you've eliminated the steering system and linkage. You could have a sticking caliper, warped drums or bent front end parts.

Tips & Warnings

• Never mix PSF 3 and PSF 4 fluid. If you want to switch to the more viscous PSF 4, bleed your system to replace the fluid entirely.