Land Rover Defender: Electric Power Steering Gear Inspection - With Heavy/Notchy Steering Gear

ELECTRIC POWER STEERING GEAR INSPECTION - WITH HEAVY/NOTCHY STEERING GEAR

NOTE: Some variation in the illustrations may occur, but the essential information is always correct.

Electric Power Steering Gear Damage Assessment Checklist

1. Log Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
2. Confirm noise, is it repeatable on the vehicle?
3. Has vehicle previously had accident damage repairs?
4. Are there any signs of impact damage to the wheels/tires?
5. Is the steering free to turn lock to lock on a wheel free ramp?
6. Is front steering alignment correct?
7. Does the noise occur on all surfaces?
8. Does the noise occur in all temperatures?

ELECTRIC POWER STEERING GEAR ACCIDENT DAMAGE CHECK

The example below shows a good steering gear in central position.

Bent Steering Gear

Below are some examples of damage that would not be accepted under the terms of the Jaguar Land Rover warranty agreement. Please note: these are examples only and do not represent all warrantable/non warrantable customer concerns.

Check the differences between the distances at point A and B. Check if the rack is central and not rubbing on the end stop damper.

The rack clearly shows that it is not centralized meaning it is a bent steering gear issue.

The rack is not centralized to the gear housing meaning it is a bent steering gear issue.

Sign of Recent Repair

Check if the tie rod ends were recently changed. Visually inspect if the conditions of the boot are the same (dirty or clean).

See the difference between the boots highlighted in yellow and in red. This will tell you if a tie rod has been replaced before in which case you can assume accident damage.

Water/Debris Damage

Check if boot clips are in position and they were not recently disturbed or moved. Check if clips are the correct type.

Check for damages and pin holes on the boots.

Check for split boots. Check for repair marks on tie rods.

Is there evidence of water/debris into steering gear.

Check for Rust, condensation, and water deposits.

ECU Damages

Check for cracks on PSCM housing.

Check for scratches and damages on PSCM connectors and the steering gear.

Damage to Connector, Seals or Wiring

Is there evidence of damage to connector clips.

Check for removed/damaged connectors.

Check for Harness damage between ECU and Torque sensor.

Impact Damage to Motor/Gear Housing

Check for evidence of impact on the motor/gear housing.

Check the alignment of the bolt between the housing and the motor and external damages on the motor housing that can alter belt tension.

Damage of Seat Material

Is there evidence of damage to seat material?

Damage to Tie Rod

Is there evidence of tie rod bending?

If there is heavy steering and bent tie rod there is a clear indication that the vehicle was subjected to heavy impacts.

Damage to Ball Joint

Is there evidence of damage to ball joints?

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