Power steering pump noise is usually a whine or groan that gets louder when you turn the steering wheel. The most common causes are low fluid, air in the system that turns the fluid foamy, a clogged reservoir screen or old fluid, and a worn pump. A squeal instead of a whine usually comes from a slipping drive belt. Many newer vehicles use electric power steering with no pump, so these causes apply to hydraulic systems.
Power steering pump noise: causes
| Noise | Likely cause |
|---|---|
| Whine that rises when turning | Low fluid or a worn pump |
| Groan with foamy or bubbly fluid | Air in the system from a leak or after service |
| Squeal when turning or accelerating | Slipping belt; see serpentine belt |
| Louder noise at full lock | Relief valve operating; some noise is normal, so do not hold full lock |
| Whine with heavy steering | Failing pump or a restricted hose |
Power steering pump noise when turning
Turning raises system pressure, so a pump that is low on fluid or drawing air protests most then. Check the fluid level with the engine at the temperature the cap or manual specifies, and look for leaks at hoses, the rack or the steering box; see bad steering box symptoms.
Power steering pump noise when accelerating
Noise that rises with engine speed rather than steering input usually comes from the pump bearings or the belt and pulley. Compare it with other accessory noises; see whining noise when accelerating.
How to fix it
- Top up with the fluid type the manufacturer specifies; some systems use ATF and others a dedicated power steering fluid.
- Fix any leaks so air cannot be drawn in.
- Bleed air by turning the wheel lock to lock several times with the engine running, as the manual describes.
- If the fluid is dark or the reservoir screen is clogged, flush the system.
- If the noise remains with full, clean fluid, the pump is worn and needs replacing.
Power steering pump noise when cold
Some groaning on very cold mornings is common because the fluid is thick, and it fades as the system warms. Noise that persists after warm-up, or that comes with heavy steering, needs attention.
Don’t hold the wheel at full lock
Holding the steering at full lock forces the pump to work against its relief valve, which creates heat and noise. Turn back slightly from full lock when parking.
Related steering problems
Play or wander in the steering is a different problem; see loose steering, death wobble and clicking noise when turning.
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