Power steering: constant noise

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Jun 10, 2010 | 02:45 PM

MarcusMIA

Thread Starter

Pole Position

Joined: Sep 2009

Posts: 343

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From: Florida

Power steering: constant noise

I checked it and the fluid was low and refilled it, but the noise did not go away. Previously the noise went away after refilling it, but not this time.

When the car is running it's a constant, high-pitched "ZZZZZZZ". When you turn the wheel it makes more noise. It sounds like one of those alien robot species in War of the Worlds (movie with Tom Cruise).

What do you guys think? The sound seems to be coming directly from the power steering pump. I thought I resolved the PS issue when I replaced the main hose, but I guess I was wrong. The hose does not seem to be leaking, though...

Jun 10, 2010 | 05:50 PM

good2go

Lexus Test Driver

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From: ca

It is possible to toast your pump by running it without enough fluid.

Jun 10, 2010 | 06:26 PM

StiCk3

Lexus Champion

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From: IN

check your fluid while it's running to see if it's bubbling. If so you have an air leak into the system that you need to track down.

Jun 10, 2010 | 07:05 PM

brawls43

Rookie

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From: MN

Yeah, you don't have enough fluid yet. If you can, put the front on jack stands, and have someone turn it lock to lock and gradually add more fluid. I had to do this when I changed out my damaged cooler lines.

Jun 10, 2010 | 10:01 PM

MarcusMIA

Thread Starter

Pole Position

Joined: Sep 2009

Posts: 343

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From: Florida

I already put the car in jackstands and checked for air in the system. No bubbling.

I also checked the fluid while it was hot and it was right up to level.

Jun 11, 2010 | 12:34 PM

TunerLexx

Driver School Candidate

Joined: Nov 2009

Posts: 49

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From: GA

pump might be bad...Mine was the exact same way...I'd do what you did by adding fluid and the whine went away...but after time the whine stayed regardless...I was fed up with it and swapped the PS pump and the whine went away ^^ hope it helps, and good luck!