Power Steering

[mudinuri]

Hi All,

Another question for you regarding my 1998 RAV4.

Recently, every time I start it up from cold in the morning the Steering wheel/Power Steering sort of shakes left right, left right but only for a short while until it warms up, then no problem at all.

Any ideas? Any advice would be appreciated.

Cheers

[gjnorthall]

There are several possible causes of this phenomenon - the most common being a low level in the fluid reservoir. This can lead to air being entrained with the fluid. In the first instance - check and, if necessary, top up the fluid level - at the same time check the appearance of the fluid - it should be bright and transparent - not milky or very dark. If topping up is required - there's likely to be a leak - carefully check the system - the pinion seal can weep on the 4.1 after high mileage.

A good test for correct operation of the rack (conventional not electronic PS) is to put slight turning pressure on the steering wheel whilst starting the engine - the wheel should kick once. Repeat in the opposite direction.