There are several things to check when having this difficulty. Check for Power Steering fluid level (it may be low). Check that the fan belt is turning the power steering pump. Beyond this you may wish to seek the advice of a professional. Hope this helps. "G"
Low on steering pump fluid or a lose belt
The steering wheel in your 1996 may be hard to turn because you are low on power steering fluid. You can add some on your own and your steering wheel will not be hard to turn.
Usually this is due to a bad rack and pinion. Expensive parts....
If the power steering fluid leaks out the steering would become very stiff, and perhaps "lock" if the car were parked.
Bad steering rack? Bad steering gear? Pitman arm?
Air in the PS system, loose belt or a tired PS pump.
Possibly the belt driving the power steering pump is worn or loose, and when wet, slips, causing the steering to get stiff.
you should take your car to a mechanic.
Most of the time it is the bushing in the top of the column. .Pull the steering wheel off,pull the locking plate for the steering wheel,pull the blinker assembly,then you will come to a stiff spring that preloads the bushing under it.....That bushing,and spring need to be replaced,and you have cured your problem. . . . .
Hey kevin==There is a valve in the gear that can stick. Also I have seen the bearings on the steering shaft that were so bad, the steering shaft was stiff. Also make sure the gear is adjusted properly/ GoodluckJoe
A person needs a steering wheel puller to remove a steering wheel. It will help remove the steering wheel by putting pressure on the middle and by pulling up on the rest of the steering wheel.
A steering wheel on a sail boat is still called a steering wheel.