Steering hard to turn when I drive slow

ROCKY23

MEMBER
1999 FORD TAURUS
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
108,000 MILES

When I stop my car or when I drive slow like in parking lots. Its really hard to turn the steering. But it works good at high speeds.I took it to a local mechanic and he inspected the car and guessed it might be a steering pump problem and said may cost 450 dollars. When he lifted the car in air he said the steering is working but when weight is applied the steering fails. So he came to conclusion that its not rack and pinion but the pump.I am ready to pay but wats bothering me is. After paying 450. If it doesnt work. So can u let me know. He is right

Thursday, January 3rd, 2008 AT 3:40 PM

2 Replies

ZUE

MEMBER
76 POSTS

The pump does seem like the possible solution. If you did not check to belt then do so. A loose belt can casue the same semptoms. I am sure the mechanic checked this as it is a basic test but do a visual inspection of belt and fluid level.

A new power steering pump is about 50.00 and a new belt is about 30.00. 450.00 sounds a bit high for parts and labor as this is about a 1 to 2 hour job. I estimate about 250.00 for the job at 80.00 per hour job rate. Get a second quote if you do not want to do it yourself.

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Thursday, January 3rd, 2008 AT 3:58 PM

ZUE