There has been a slow leak in the power steering system for about 6 mo now. I've had it looked at twice and they can't seem to find the leak any where. Last night coming from the grocery store the pump started making LOTS of noise. There is plenty of power steering fluid in the resevoir (sp?).
Is this common problem for the 92 SC400? What is the best course of action now?
Is it ok to drive, even if it is making noises like a Samford and Son junkyard special!!
Thanks for your help
T

 

From what I heard, you need to change the power steering pump. An after market one would cost about $250-$300 part.

This is common for SC and LS, LS is worst because if you wait the oil will leaks down and ruin the alternator below it. I don't think SC has that problem, but you need to replace that soon.

Who said that Lexus doesn't breakdown?

 

Be aware the SC4's are common for this problem and yes the Alternator is under the pump as well and if it's leaking say bye bye to the alternator too.
Mine went, if you're in the northeast... I went to
All In One Auto on Bronx River ave in the Bronx and got a pump, and an Alternator (I learned the hard way) for about $300 bucks... Good luck.

P.S. the pump started leaking again and wouldn't you know I bought some transmission sealer from Auto Zone and no problems since?
I hear the dealer has a rebuild kit, but not sure...

 

If you have the right amount of fluid then check the hoses.

Get someone to turn the wheel and watch the hoses. If they collapse then they will do exactly what you are saying.

If someone ever worked on it they probably did not install the factory hose. If so replace it.

It may just be worn out.

Go get a factory hose, before it does wear your pump out.

Also check for air bubbles in the fluid.

Scott

 

Lexus does make a reseal kit not a rebuild kit.If the pump is making noise it will probably still make noise after the repair,the vanes in the pump are more than likely worn out.it is true about the hoses,also check the filter in the rack, it is in the solenoid that screws into rack. there is a filter in the pump, it is in the pressure valve,where the high pressure line srews into the pump,the other filter is more of a screen it is part of the resavoir,if it gets pluged up it will cause alot of noise,because the fluid can't get to the pump itself . as far as a after market pump beware