trk1

Hey guys, I woke up today and noticed that the steering on my car is SUPER stiff at time. It is very stiff during turns and changing lanes and it feels like the power steering pump gives up for a few seconds and then kicks in with 40% power. I'm really worried that the power steering might be dying/dead. All the fluid is up to level.No sign of leaks. When the car was running I took the top off the PS tank and saw a steady stream bubbles rising to the top.
Is there any test that I can do to see if the pump is working properly?

worldforgo

Well if the car is still running then the pump isn't seized. What model/year do you have?

trk1

its a 96 es300 with 154k

lexus ASM

The pump doesn't have to seize to stop working.

I would have a mechanic disconnect the return line and see if its actually circulating fluid. Either your pump is bad or theres an obstruction. P/S pumps generate some pretty good pressure, it will be easy to see if its pumping properly.

***Please dont do this yourself, unless you have proper fluid, containers and disposal.

nine3es

iTrader: (3)

ps belt may be slipping/need replacing

trk1

@9
where can i locate the ps steering belt and pump?

nine3es

iTrader: (3)

behind the passenger side front wheel, there is a wheel apron covering the view of the pump and belt. its kinda hard to access unless you are under the vehicle or at least jack it up and remove the wheel/apron. if its been over a year, i would get a belt and try it first, if it turns out it is the pump you will want to replace the old belt anyways.

trk1

so i had a few people take a look and test drive it and they suggested that it might be the rack and pinion going bad.
I'm getting it inspected at a belle tire this weekend, and I'll know for sure.
ANy body have any idea on how much it would cost to fix the rack and pinion?

VicsIS350

hmmm interesting case please keep us updated.

trk1

Turns out it was the rack and pinion going bad.
the part alone is $253. I'm still shopping around for labor.

PFB

Not sure its worth going that route, but rebuilt kits are available. Some Companies also sell remanufactured ones with a full warranty. Do an Internet Search.

Also, ask the garage that's going to perform the labour. They may know someone in your area, that could rebuild yours.

mike96sc2

I thought mine was going bad too, but is it cold where you're at? It might improve when the weather warms up.

I later found out when I had my power steering pump replaced they didn't fill the pump full of fluid.

I would take stock in how long you plan to have the car, I have 269k on my '99 ES300 so at this point I've set a $1500 limit total on all future repairs so I don't get underwater on fixing this car.

Knock on wood though it's going pretty well so I hope to see 300k before I replace it.