05 4Runner Steering Problem

[macgyver3636]

Thanks IMD4runner!
I lubed up the steering ujoint on my 2003 and it seems better.
Also I flushed out the P/S oil just incase.
I will order a new joint because it does look good and rusted.

Thanks again
Cheers
Tim

 

[tpdllc]

I have an 05 SR5 V8 with 84K miles. Just started the same thing last week. Very intermittant. Checked everything and PS is fine on the outside. Never thought of the joint in the column.

My experience is with Land Rovers and when a pump goes, it goes! So I hope you guys found the answer. I'll post my findings.
Tom

 

[richardstaley]

Had the same problem here....

Took it to one shop and they wanted to do a new pump and rack for around $1000. ouch! Took it to another and he found out it was rusted u-joints in the steering column. About $250 later, she drives amazing. Definitely look into it.

 

[MidwestT4R]

Yes, definitely look into alternatives like the u-joint. On a somewhat related note I took my 4runner to the dealer right before the certified warranty expired just so they could check for drivetrain issues. There weren't any. But in their eyes there was certainly power steering issues. They told me I needed a new power steering rack because it was leaking. So were the front struts. The funny part is the fact that when I did the front brakes the week before I didn't notice any leaks. So I declined the service. Took it to my local favorite mechanic who looked it over and told me that there weren't any leaks in either the power steering rack or struts. Dealer wanted 2300 bucks for all of it. My local mechanic charged me 20 bucks.

Still steering fine!

 

[earthrealm]

old thread, but pics of the u joints would be appreciated

 

[fdbyrne]

You can see it clearly from the driver side wheel well if you pull back the rear splash guard.

There is also a Youtube video of Eric The Car Guy replacing this part after being so sure that it was the rack that he replaced the rack. He was pretty stumped. Good video though.

 

[Bossman]

Two threads on this steering problem subject I'd refer you to ...

This one has pictures of the u-joint (intermediate shaft)

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/96639-steering-column-u-joint.html

This one has a post of my diagnosis of the problem

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/153652-2005-4runner-stiff-steering.html

 

[Bossman]

Eric the Car Guy - YouTube Video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bqPF_SNueyg

Intermediate Shaft! Damn U-Joint!!

 

[earthrealm]

sprayed wd 40 on the u joint, last night..and the steering was ok this morning.still went ahead to replace the steering fluid, steering feels very light now