A failing power steering pump can give many warning signs of failure before it actually packs in completely.
Whining or Groaning on Full Lock
The first sign of trouble with your power steering pump could be a whine or groan noise when locking your steering wheel fully in either direction. This will typically increase in volume when locked fully in either direction and can often be heard to be coming from the location of the power steering pump. This is often indicative of the pump struggling to meet the increased pressure required when locking the wheel fully.
Heavy Steering at Low Speeds
Power steering is most noticeable when you are driving at low speed. A failing power steering pump will start to show its symptoms while you are maneuvering into a parking space and it will feel stiffer than before.
Fluid Leaks Under the Car For power steering specialists, visit https://westernpowersteering.co.uk/.
The fluid leaked from a power steering system is typically pale yellow or pink in colour and has a slightly oily or sweet odour. It can leak from a variety of points on the system including the pump, hose connections and reservoir. Check the ground under your engine bay after parking overnight for any signs of a leak. If you do find a leak, make sure to address the issue as soon as possible as the fluid can attract dirt and dust which can cause damage to other components.
Wobble on the Pump Pulley
Look for Wobble on the Pump Pulley. With the engine turned off look at the pump pulley. Give it a bit of a wobble with your hand. If it wobbles from side to side then the bearings inside the pump are worn. This will only get worse with time.
Steering Effort That Changes with Engine Speed
Check for fluctuation in steering effort with engine RPM. If the steering effort fluctuates with engine RPM and tracks the engine RPM then the problem is likely to be with the power steering pump rather than the rack and pinion etc. This is how power steering specialists test for this type of problem.
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