how do i tell if my power steering pump is going bad in my car?

Question

right now when i turn the wheel and/or use the gas there is a hum/moan coming from the car. how can i pinpoint the problem?

Answer 1

I have had luck with flushing the fluid on my Ford products. Using this procedure.
- Empty as much fluid from the reservoir as possible
- Pull the fuel pump relay
- Remove the return line from the power steering reservoir (mine didn't want to come off so I cut it off since I had plenty of slack in the hose), make sure you have shop towels under the line
- Place a small length of hose over the opening in the reservoir and clamp shut
- Place the return line in a clear length of hose run to a bucket, 5/8" inside diameter will fit tightly without the need for a clamp
- Raise the front wheels on jack stands
- While you get ready to pour new ATF into the reservoir, have your helper crank the engine while turning the wheels from stop to stop. Do not hold the wheel against the stops for more than 3 seconds. Also since the starter motor is being used do not crank more than 15 seconds at a time and give it a 1-minute rest in between.
- Watch the fluid coming out, once it is clear of old fluid stop cranking and reassemble
- Refill fluid to proper level
- Make sure you purge the air out of the system, I made the mistake of going for a test drive before purging and it sounded like the engine was coming apart.
- To purge lower the wheels on the ground, start the engine and turn the wheels back and forth quickly but do not hit the stops.
- Stop the engine and refill the reservoir to proper level, repeat until the fluid does not drop anymore.

Answer 2

The problem with a leaking power steering fluid is you're dumping oil on the ground everywhere you go. It not only leaves ugly stains in the driveway, it also harms the environment. It also costs you money, since you have to keep refilling the system in order to drive the car safely. When the system runs out of fluid it gets extremely hard to steer, and can cause a serious problem when driving in traffic or trying to avoid an accident. Get a second or third opinion on getting the work done somewhere else. Check around outside of the town/city where you live, and even talk to the dealership. I don't know what kind of car you have, but $900 seems like a lot unless you need more than just a pump.

Answer 3

Try to isolate the problem by listening with the hood open. Are you leaking PS fluid? Have it checked out, is all I can say. good luck

Answer 4

Check your P.S fluid level.

Answer 5

look at fluid level...open hood and have someone turn wheel..you look and listen...slipping belt could b it