Leaking oil near power steering pump

DHOLMAN166

MEMBER
2006 TOYOTA COROLLA
1.8L
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
150,000 MILES

I have been doing some work on to get it ready for inspection. I changed the oil last week, and I replaced the resonator a few days ago. The exhaust sounds better, but Is still rather loud coming from the area of the down pipe. I went under the car today to check for leaks around the catalytic converter, and I noticed a significant amount of [what I believe is] oil on and around [what I believe is] the power steering pump. From my understanding, the crankshaft pulley is located right next to the power steering pump, but I did not have a chance to inspect it closely yet. Power steering fluid, and oil levels are both still right where they are supposed to be, though when I changed the oil, the oil level was very low. It is my wife's vehicle, and if the sticker on her windshield is correct, it had been about 7,000 miles since her last oil change. It was almost dark out when I was trying to look around earlier, but I got a couple half decent pictures that can hopefully help somebody, help me. Any input would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for reading.

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1 Reply

MIKE H R

MECHANIC
3,094 POSTS

From the pictures there does seem to be a small leak, It does not seem to be a major one. Get some engine cleaner and wash off the areas, stay away from the electrical wires and top part of the engine. This way after it is cleaned watch it after running a while. My first thoughts are there is a slow leak and may be from the power steering pump. Also, check the bolts on the valve cover. With the area cleaned off you will be able to see where it is coming from. But what I can see it is a small leak If possible try to get under the car with a flashlight and see if you can pinpoint any leaks.