Symptoms
- Reddish or light brown puddle under the front of the car
- Power steering fluid reservoir keeps needing refills
- Whining noise when turning that gets worse over time
Likely causes
- CommonLeaking power steering hose or fittingHoses and their connections can crack or loosen with age and vibration.
- CommonLeaking pump shaft sealThe seal where the pump shaft spins can wear out and weep fluid.
- PossibleLeaking steering rack sealRack seals can leak, especially on higher-mileage vehicles.
What to do
- Check the fluid reservoir level and note how quickly it drops.
- Look under the car for fresh fluid on the ground, then trace upward to find the source: hoses, pump, or rack.
- Wipe down suspected areas and drive briefly, then recheck for fresh wetness to pinpoint the leak.
- Top off fluid temporarily to keep the system running until repaired, but don't ignore a confirmed leak.
- Have a mechanic replace the specific leaking hose, seal, or component rather than just topping off fluid repeatedly.
Tools and parts
- Power steering fluid
- Flashlight
- Cardboard to place under the car overnight
Power steering hoseSearch: “power steering hose for [your car model]”
Power steering fluidSearch: “power steering fluid for [your car model]”
When to call a pro
Have a mechanic trace the exact source of the leak, since power steering rack leaks and pump leaks require different repairs.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.