Whenever it gets down in temps my wifes 05 RX has a steering problem. The steering feels like its manual for the first 15-20 minutes of driving. She has to use 2 hands to steer and thats not very safe. The power steering pump is full and there are no strange sounds coming from the engine.

Is this normal for these cars? Maybe wrong viscosity of fluid? Need a little advice here. Thanks

 

check the fluid colour, it should be red. if it is clear (yellowish), someone put the wrong fluid in, so start there.

the correct fluid is transmission fluid, it should appear bright red.

my 2004 acts somewhat similar, for the first 5 minutes or less, the steering is very stiff, and whines (it only does this when its very cold, IE -20C)

 

Good advice from Kiwi. While you're at it check your serpentine belt and tensioner. It's harder to move cold fluids.

 

Mobil 1 ATF


'08 RX 350 Flint Mica/blk 85,000 miles, complete drivetrain filled with Amsoil, Mobil 1, 0-30 in engine, Mobil 1 ATF in power steering. Living in Minnesota you have to be prepared.

 

It's just because of the low temps. The fluid becomes thicker and is harder to push. As it warms and thins it will feel as it should.