FixVault

Power Assist Check

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Honda Odyssey and 2005 Honda Odyssey. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
NOTE: This test should be done with original equipment tires and wheels at the correct tire pressure.
  1. Check the power steering fluid level (see FLUID REPLACEMENT  ).
  2. Start the engine, let it idle, and turn the steering wheel from lock-to-lock several times to warm up the fluid.
  3. Attach a commercially available spring scale to the steering wheel. With the engine idling and the vehicle on a clean, dry floor, pull the scale as shown in Fig 1 and read it as soon as the tires begin to turn.
    • If the scale reads no more than 31A N (3.2 kgf, 6.8 lbf) the gearbox and pump are OK.
    • If the scale reads more than 31.4 N (3.2 kgf, 6.8 lbf) check the gearbox and pump.
    Fig 1: Attaching Spring Scale To Steering Wheel
    G03705264Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.