Steering pressure is not constant

Tiny
POWERPRO369
  • MEMBER
  • 2005 HONDA ACCORD
  • 65,000 MILES
I have looked high and low for an answer to this question but I have not seen anyone have a similar question.

As I take a turn I can feel the steering wheel slip (Slightly) as though the pressure goes from normal pressure to a lighter pressure. It doesn't make the drive unsafe but I really don't like not having a solid and constant feel.

What I have checked so far.
--Replaced the serpentine belt
--Fluid is between the min/max line
--No leaks

Could this be in the rack and pinion? Maybe the shaft sticking? Or could there be air in the system? If so, how do I purge the air? Does anyone have any thoughts to this annoying issue?
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Wednesday, September 26th, 2012 AT 6:52 AM

3 Replies

Tiny
KHLOW2008
  • MECHANIC
  • 41,815 POSTS
More likely to be the power steering pump. Seen many such cases. Check the fluid condition in reservoir and I would suggest replacing the fluid and cleaning the reservoir for a start. The filter in reservoir tends to get clogged causing the problem. You might need to replace the reservoir if it is clogged too badly.
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Wednesday, September 26th, 2012 AT 7:28 AM
Tiny
CARADIODOC
  • MECHANIC
  • 33,699 POSTS
I'd start by finding an identical year and model and driving it to see if it acts the same way. If it does it may have speed-proportional steering where the power assist goes down at highway speeds where it isn't needed. They do list a power steering pressure switch but it doesn't say if that's for steering assist or not. A switch more commonly is a computer input to tell the Engine Computer to raise engine idle speed in response for the increased load placed on it by the power steering pump when you're turning.
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Wednesday, September 26th, 2012 AT 7:29 AM
Tiny
KHLOW2008
  • MECHANIC
  • 41,815 POSTS
The pressure switch is for idle control purposes only.
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Wednesday, September 26th, 2012 AT 7:36 AM

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