RudysSC

So I'll start this whole story from the beginning... About a month ago after our first snow a buddy and i took out my sc4 to do donuts in parking lots around town. This went on for a good hour or so. The car performed great, with no hesitation ever. However, when we finished the steering effort was noticeably higher than when we had begun. I figured the PS pump was on the fritz and expected it to kick out on me one day. I've been driving the car every day since and it has been fine.

However, last night i'm in the drivethru at sonic, and all of the sudden the music cuts out and the radio (nothing else) starts flashing on and off. Tried hitting the power button etc and nothing happened. I turned the car off out of curiosity, and it wouldn't start. Just sat there and clicked like a dead battery. So we walk up the street to my buddys, come back with a car and cables and jump it. The car starts right back up, everything works, AND the steering effort is once again minimal like it was BEFORE doing donuts.

Can anybody help me make any sense of this? Naturally i feel as though i need a battery, possibly an alternator, and possibly a power steering pump?


Thanks for the help!

LunaVyohr

Test your alternator, battery and battery cables. It's possible that your power steering pump is leaking on to your alternator. Common problem with the 1UZ.

BangarangX

My vote is for accessory drive belt. Slipping belt will cause crappy performance from your power steering pump and alternator. Result? High steering effort, and an undercharging battery. Check the condition of the belt, and report back.

Old belt + winter temps + continuous free revving high rpms may = This

Do the basics too. Check battery voltage disconnected at rest, battery voltage at idle, and same with all accessories turned on.

RudysSC

The belt seems very solid, however it won't hurt to change that out. I'll also be sure to inspect and test everything, as well as check the power steering pump for leaks! I appreciate the help guys!

RudysSC

No leaks on the alternator so good there. Threw a new belt on, as well as replaced the battery. So far so good. Think you hit the nail on the head with the belt slipping. Thanks again CL.