Power Steering Noise

[supark]

So I think I figured out my rear end noise - pretty sure that it was actually my parking brake that was sticking. When I hear the rubbing noise, I raise the parking brake a little bit and the sound disappears - I'm going to adjust the cables this weekend and see if it helps. I assume that the cables have just stretched over time.

Now I'm able to focus on other odd noises in my car. When I do a sharp turn at slow speeds, I hear the power steering pump groaning. I don't hear the belt squealing or anything, the pump is just a bit noisy. I've checked the power steering fluid level and it's right between min and max, so I don't believe it's a fluid issue.

Is this indicative that the pump is near the end of its life? Or is it related to my belts or pulleys? I'm pretty certain it's not belt or pulley related because usually the related sounds are different. The noise I hear is definitely my power steering pump groaning - I remember my old Ford Taurus' pump doing the exact same thing before it went kaput. It works fine other than being noisy - I'm just concerned that it may be putting more pressure on the lines than they should really be handling.

Anyway suggestions?

[RAiMA]

Just means it's low on power steering fluid. Topping it up with get rid of the noise. Good luck with it

[supark]

Originally posted by RAiMA@Nov 2 2004, 03:51 PM
Just means it's low on power steering fluid. Topping it up with get rid of the noise. Good luck with it

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Checked the fluid and it's right near the top of the fill line. It was a little dirty though - wondering if I just need to swap out the fluid, I'm pretty certain that it's the original power steering fluid.

[RAiMA]

Can always try swapping the fluid. Make sure to use ATF (automatic transmission fluid). Once it's been replaced, switch the car on and turn the steering wheel slowly from side to side (full lock) to push any air out that may be passing through the pump. It's usually this air that passes through the pump that makes the groaning noise. Do it a few times and the sound should disappear.

If the symptoms still persist, sounds like your original diagnosis was correct.

Good luck again

[kearnyme]

You know in the winter time my power steering hoses contract causing leakage, which eventually causes the groaning. I just top off the fluid. In the summer its all good though.. (I have new replacement power steering lines, I've just been too lazy to install them).

you might want to change it if its contaminated, you definetly don't want any dirt to get in there..