recently, when driving around at low speeds, there is an audible whine coming from the engine bay at low speeds. When turning the wheel, it gets louder or quieter depending. Could this be my PS pump going out?

 

Yes this can be the power steering pump. Check for leaks in the engine bay near the alternator and near the steering rack. Fix this problem ASAP, because in my case the steering rack was damaged also, because of the leaky pump. Lucky for me the car was under extended warranty, total cost around $1400 at Lexus dealer. Zero 4 me.

AJ

 

most likely due to low P/S fluid. which means you may have a leak on the pump which means it can damage your alternator or your steering rack.. which means broken bank account.

 

luckily i have an sc3 so my alternator is safe, but the steering rack is what im concerned about. Just checked the fluid and it is a bit low. Does toyota use ATF from the factory or is it actually powersteering fluid. I was planning on a flush next week but might have to do it sooner than planned. Thanks for the input.

 

Use ONLY Dextron ATF. I made a post on exactly how to flush the PS system a few months ago....

 

yep get the rebuild kit for $35.00 and fix the pump or you will be out big buck...

CEo

 

yep saw the post a while back aerostar. Ive been compiling newspapers to sop up the mess =)
dextron-III?

 

Does the noise disappear once the car warms up? Just curious.

Ed

 

check all your ps hoses too, the pump is only one think that can leak. the High pressure ps hose, and others eventually crack..

 

Dextron II or III. It dont mattah'

 

Don't jump to the conclusions about the aircon pump, its more likely to be air in the system. You need to bleed it then top up with fluid. You can read how to bleed the system here:

http://www.intellexual.net/

 

Might as well flush the fluid while you're there...then bleed the hell out of it