Q: Leaking power steering fluid

asked by on February 05, 2016

My car is leaking power steering fluid, and it is hard to turn.

Power steering fluid is leaking Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

If your vehicle is hard to turn and you are positive you are leaking power steering fluid, the leak is the cause of this issue. The power steering system is a hydraulic system that relies on a specific amount of fluid in order to perform its intended function. If the fluid level becomes low, the efficiency of the system drops significantly, if it works at all. I would recommend having your power steering system inspected by a professional.

Possible leak sources include the reservoir, pump, rack and pinion, pressure line, and return line. Be sure that all of these items are inspected during the diagnosis of your power steering leak. Once the source of the leak has been confirmed, have it repaired as soon as possible as power steering problems can be a safety issue.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

How do I use and adjust the bed extender?
If your car comes equipped with bed extenders, then there are three potential positions for the extenders. storage, divider, and extender. You can adjust the extender into either of the three settings. Storage position is the default extender position, as...
Engine misfiring in a 2002 Pontiac Montana
A misfire could be caused by number of problems but since you are getting the p0204 and p0203 I believe that is is probably an injector that is causing the misfire. I would replace the injector (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/fuel-injector-replacement) for the number...
Whining noise of the CVT transmission during acceleration on a 2013 Nissan Altima
Here is the problem with Nissans. Nissans were great cars when they were Datsuns. Then they called them Nissans because they wanted them to look more Japanese. In the last decade and a half, their quality has gone downhill. Unfortunately,...
Power steering - 2007 Pontiac Grand Prix
Hi. It is very difficult to tell you size of the belts that would needed to eliminate the power steering pump without measuring some things on the car. If I had to guess, you may need a belt that is...
It's cranking but the engine won't turn over and start
Hello there, many common faults will cause your 2002 Nissan Maxima to crank but not start. The most likely fault is the battery (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/battery-replacement), it must be load tested and ruled out before diagnosis can proceed. Other possible faults are...
One month ago cel came on I changed spark plugs to after market plugs. One month later cel on again with misfire code.
If the spark plugs hadn't been changed until 130k, it was time for the to be replaced anyway. This is probably why the dealer went with that repair as worn spark plugs can cause misfires. Ignition coils are another part...
Charging system warning light.
Hi There, This may be a sign of a weak battery, a failing voltage regulator or failing alternator. The alternator is responsible for charging the battery while the engine runs by generating amperage and recharging the battery while the engine...
Over heating
A diagnostic would determine the root cause of the overheating. If the coolant level was low, and/or there was trapped air in the cooling passageways, perhaps related to the radiator replacement, those faults themselves can cause overheating. If the coolant...
Should I try to salvage my car that has a knocking noise do to insufficient supply of oil or do I just buy a new car?
Hello, thank you for writing in. With the issues you are having, the problem may be more serious then the car is worth. You will want to consider all of the potential costs to have it fixed. This may require...

Related articles

How to Buy a Good Quality Idle Control Valve
There There are many different times when you will be idling your car; when you’re sitting in front of the gas station waiting for someone to go in and grab a snack or a drink, or while you’re sitting in...
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Oil Pump O-Ring
Common signs include a low level of engine oil, leaking oil covering other parts of the engine, and puddles of oil under the car.
How to Check the 5 Essential Fluids in Your Car
Checking your oil and adding engine coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid are essential for maintaining your car.