Looking for some advice. Lately in my 2002 es300 ive been feeling a little stiffness in my steering wheel when making turns. Nothing major where i have to put muscle into turning the wheel, but i believe its a little more stiff than usual. I checked my power steering fluid and it is still at the max level in the container. If anyone has any idea on what the problem could be, if there is one i would appreciate the help, thanks.

 

I have not experienced it personally, but have read on a Camry forum that the flex joint in the steering column at the firewall can dry out. Eventually it can get squeaky, too.

What folks do is lube it; it has rubber so a rubber friendly grease is good, like Sil-Glyde at Napa.

http://m.napaonline.com/tablet//part...Dp%3d3%26N%3d0

Now that you have this wonderful stuff, smear some on your door, trunk, window and sunroof seals. Put some on your radiator hoses and other engine hoses to protect the exterior. Great stuff.

Maybe your cause is something else, but this is a known issue and the first thing I'd check.

Also if you do not know the last time the PS fluid was changed, then it for sure needs to be done. It also could just be worn out fluid. Easy to do yourself for just a few dollars of new fluid:

http://www.toyotanation.com/forum/10...ce-needed.html

And don't forget the brake and tranny fluid if those are not fresh, too.

 

Check tire pressure

 

Check the power steering belt tension:


+1 on changing the power steering fluid