Steering a bit tight, fluid a bit low

Tiny
BUSHJUL
  • MEMBER
  • 1996 CHEVROLET ASTRO
  • 6 CYL
  • AWD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 143,000 MILES
Just bought a 1996 chevy astrovan. Steering was a tiny bit tight while turning, fluid a bit low. Major problem? Possible its just a small line leak?
Thursday, May 28th, 2009 AT 8:42 PM

1 Reply

Tiny
SQM
  • MECHANIC
  • 6,383 POSTS
Hello,

Low fluid can make it difficult to turn the steering wheel and that can also make noise from the power steering pump.
So, first step would be to top off the fluid at the correct level and see if that takes care of the issue.
Keep in mind that dirty / contaminated fluid can also impact the performance of the power steering. So, making sure the fluid is in good condition is important.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/power-steering-fluid-flush

If that does not fix the issue, you could have a failing power steering pump.

Here are couple of helpful guides:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/power-steering-problems
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-a-power-steering-pump

Please let me know if you have any questions.
Thank you.
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Monday, November 15th, 2021 AT 3:11 PM

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