Most common is the whining or squealing noise when you turn the steering wheel. But this may mean you just need fluid. Also, look for fluid leaks.
If you have rack and pinion steering, the steering gear will need replaced.
You probably need to top off your power steering fluid first. If the problem contiues then yes, it probably does need to be replaced.
your power steering fluid return line, also known as your power steering low pressure line, may have a hair line crack in it and need to be replaced.
The first thing to check is the power steering fluid level. If the reservoir is low add some. Other then that, it can be the power steering pump is going bad, and will need to be replaced soon.
rack may be worn out and need to be replaced Power steering belt may be slipping and not turning pump fast enough Power steering pump may be bad
A bad power steering pump, You need to either check the fluid level and make sure there is enough or have it replaced.
The pump will be ruined and need to be replaced if the car was driven with a dry pump.
A steering wheel might be squeaky because it might be the bushings that need to be replaced. Also the power steering fluid pump might be going bad. Both of these are easy fixes.
If the fluid level is fine, but the power steering isn't working, it's possible the pump has gone out. Another possibility is that the power steering belt is broken or slipping. It may need to be replaced or adjusted.
Common problem, easy solution, three possibilities only. Either, the power steering fluid is low or one of the belts at the engine need to be replaced or the power steering pump is worn and needs to be replaced. Check to see how much fluid is in the power steering pump, if full then replace every belt on the engine, if the sound goes away then you are done, if not replace the power steering pump.
When it is damp or rainy, the rubber V-belt is slipping on the Power Steering Pump's pulley. It may only need to be tightened, or it may need to be replaced. An inspection will determine which is required.
If the power steering in your 1993 Infiniti J30 is hard to turn, it could be due to low power steering fluid, a leak in the system, or a failing power steering pump. First, check the fluid level and top it off if necessary. If the fluid is fine, inspect for leaks in the hoses or connections. If you still experience difficulty, the power steering pump may need to be replaced or serviced.