Q: Steering Issues - 2001 Ford Mustang

asked by on November 02, 2016

When i try to turn the steering wheel, it is hard to turn and when i do turn it, it makes a loud squeak/grind sound.

My car has 137000 miles.
My car has a manual transmission.

Hello, thanks for writing in. The symptoms described are commonly caused by issues with the power steering system. It may be possible that the power steering fluid has run low, or an issue has occurred with the power steering pump. The power steering system is designed to reduce steering wheel effort by providing hydraulic powered assistance. If there is an issue with the system it may result in a wheel that is difficult to turn, as well as possible noises from the power steering pump.

The first thing I would do is check the vehicle’s power steering fluid to make sure that it is not low, as low fluid can cause both of the symptoms you are experiencing. If the fluid is okay, then I would recommend having a professional technician such as one from YourMechanic, come to your location to diagnose the power steering system.

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

Car jerking forward after brake pedal release.
The rear brakes on this car are drum brakes and they may be binding due to the rear wheel brake cylinders binding or the springs are weak and do not return the brakes quick enough. The brakes should be inspected...
Belt makes noise after turning on air conditioning
Hi. If your vehicle is only making noise when you start the vehicle, it may be possible that there is a problem with the belt or one or more of the pulleys. I would recommend having a professional technician, such...
Problems starting my car. It cranks strong but for a long time - 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Hi there. A malfunctioning mass air flow sensor may create the extended crank concern; however, a sticking idle air control valve can create the same concern. Cleaning of either components has been known to help with the situation. However, this...
CAR ONLY STAYS ON WHILE HOLDING KEY AS SOON AS I LET GO OF KEY CAR SHUTS OFF
The ignition switch is going to be the most common failure for the ignition loosing contact in the run position of the switch. If you can hold the ignition in a position toward start position and can keep it running...
What holds the slave e cylinder rod in place
Hi there. The rod should be held in place by the slave cylinder; the rod has a notch on one end where the small opening of the boot holds and a smaller diameter portion at the other for insertion into...
Brakes hard to push or stuck in park.
Hi there. Check the parking brake lever and cable. As the vehicle was on a hill and the parking brake was set, the cable could have gotten stuck or the parking brake assembly in the rear brakes could have failed...
Is getting a 2010 BMW M3 with 70,000 miles used as a daily driver expensive annually?
Hello. Though this vehicle will be fun to drive, it will be much more expensive to maintain then the Infiniti is. The cost for every service is more expensive, and normal wear parts like brakes and tires will typically cost...
I have a high pitched squeal when i accelerate, gets worse as rpm raises, new water pump and timing belt
It's possible that the water pump that was installed is faulty. The best way to determine this is to use a mechanic's stethoscope and use it on different areas of the engine to determine where the sound is coming from....
My 2009 GMC Sierra is making a clunking noise in the rear end. It happens when the truck is in Drive, but while I am applying the
It is possible that you could have a loose leaf spring shackle causing this noise. If the truck does not have leaf springs on the axle does possible that it has an arm that acts as a control arm that...

Related articles

Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Steering Column Actuator
Common signs include difficulty starting the car, being able to take the key out of the ignition anytime, and an overheating ignition switch.
How Long Does a Steering Damper Last?
Most Most of us are used to being able to enjoy smooth, precise movement when we turn the steering wheel in our vehicle. That is made possible by a combination of different components, including the splines that mate the steering...
How Long Does a Power Steering Hose Last?
Chances Chances are good that your car’s power steering system is hydraulic – most of them are. Electronic power steering (EPS) is becoming more common, and older, manual style systems are still out there, but hydraulic systems are by far...