Symptoms
- Whining or groaning noise when turning the steering wheel, especially at low speed
- Steering feels heavier or harder to turn than normal
- Reddish, amber, or light brown puddle near the front of the car, sometimes closer to a front wheel
- Power steering fluid reservoir reads low
Likely causes
- CommonLeaking power steering hoseHigh-pressure hoses running from the pump to the steering gear can crack or leak at their fittings over time.
- CommonLeaking power steering pump sealThe pump's shaft seal wears with age and use, similar to a water pump seal.
- PossibleLeaking steering rack sealInternal seals in the steering rack itself can wear, often showing as fluid on the inner boot or dripping near the rack.
- Less commonLoose or degraded reservoir cap/fittingA less common but simple cause worth checking first.
What to do
- Check the power steering fluid reservoir level and top off with the correct fluid type if low.
- With the engine off, visually inspect the power steering hoses, pump, and steering rack area for wetness or residue.
- Turn the steering wheel side to side while parked with the engine running (briefly) and listen for the noise location, which can help identify pump versus rack issues.
- Check the steering rack's rubber boots (near where the rack meets the wheels) for fluid pooling inside them, a sign of an internal rack seal leak.
- Have the specific leaking component (hose, pump, or rack) repaired, since power steering fluid loss can eventually lead to very heavy, difficult steering or pump damage.
Tools and parts
- Flashlight
Power steering fluid matching your vehicle's specSearch: “power steering fluid”
Power steering hose or pump for your vehicleSearch: “power steering pump”
When to call a pro
See a mechanic if steering feels heavy or the whining noise is getting worse, since continuing to drive on very low power steering fluid can damage the pump.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.