Hi,
A slow leak of Power Steering fluid becomes normal after several years, or after aprx 100.00 to 150.000 km. This is caused by rubber gaskets hardening and allowing small amounts of fluid to bypass those seals. This will cause noise when turning, lack of power assist, etc.
you should replace old power steering fluid at at this juncture - in fact it is recommended at around 100.000 km, but most manufacturers won't mention it, and will simply leave it up to your dealer to diagnose when you describe those symptoms.
You can have it replaced entirely for around a thousand bucks, or you can add a stop leak product to the mix to soften and expand the gaskets for around ten bucks, after having siphoned out the fluid. Then top it up with the new fluid (follow manufacturers specs for fluid!).
Hope this helps,
John C.
Power Steering Fluid Or Power Steering Pump
It sounds like your power steering fluid is low, also check the lines.
Steering wheel noises can be caused by low power steering fluid. A loose or worn belt or suspension problems can also cause a steering wheel to make noises when turned.
Low power steering fluid or defective power steering pump.
Yes. Have had this happen to me. A serpentine belt is what brings power to both your alternator and your power steering pump. If the alternator isn't turned by the belt, it can't produce electricity, and your engine will stop. If the power steering pump isn't turned by the belt, it can't move fluid, and your power steering will quit working (note that you can still steer in an emergency, but it's VERY tough). Hope this helps. NJM
You might be low on power steering fluid
check the power steering fluid level..! It could also be that the power steering pump has failed.
* No power steering fluid in reservoir * The power steering pump is not operating
Check your power steering pump A: check the front Left wheel bearing
the most likely cause of that would be the power steering pump failing.
the engine is using its power to run the power steering pump
cause your power steering pump has died... try hit it with a hammer :)