Hard steering wheel

They are 2 different problems, the p/s has to be leaking from somewhere.I suggest bleeding the p/s system, but before you do check for leaks, very common problem is the low pressure p/s hose leaking. As far as the coolant have the system pressure tested to find a leak. If no visable leak is found could be internal leak. Post back with an other questions.

Hi:
When turning the vehicle, does it feel like it's fighting you? If the PS fluid is full, it sounds like the steering rack and pinion is going bad. Have a mechanic check it.

Also, if all other lights are working, the bulb needs replaced.

I hope this helps. Let me know if you have any other questions.

Joe

The way to fix this i1. Fill the fluid reservoir to the FULL COLD level. Leave the cap off.

2. Raise the front wheel off the ground.

3. Attach the J 43485 (Adapter) to the J 23738 (Mityvac), or equivalent. Place the J 43485 on/in the pump reservoir filler neck (refer to graphic). Apply a vacuum of 20 in Hg MAXIMUM.

Note: If the J 43485 (adapter) is not available, an equivalent can be made using a rubber seal/stopper and brass fitting.

Important: An assistant is needed for the next step.

4. Apply vacuum while turning the steering wheel lock to lock. Maintain 20 in Hg while turning. Using a clear line will allow you to see bubbles evacuating system. Stop when no more bubbles are seen.

5. Wait five minutes. Typically vacuum drop is 2-3 in Hg. Verify the fluid level. If the fluid level is low, fill to the full line.

6. Reinstall the cap. Start and idle the engine.

7. Turn the engine off. Verify the fluid level. If the fluid level drops, add fluid. Repeat Steps 4 and 5 until the fluid level stabilizes.

8. Start and idle the engine. Turn the steering wheel 180 °- 180 °in both directions five times. DO NOT TURN TO LOCK.

9. Switch the ignition off. Verify the fluid level.

10. Install the cap. The bleed procedure is complete.
S as follows.

GM had a TSB on this problem. The recommendation is to replace the power steering fluid with new fluid, and with a cap adaptor using a vacuum pump at the resevoir, with the car off the ground, apply vacuum to the resevoir while turning the steering wheel clock to clock several times.

This has worked for me on other makes with similiar issues. It's an inexpensive thing to try.

Check to make sure the belts are tight and clean. Often times, oil or other substances get on the belt and cause a noise.

Have you checked ball joints? Control arm bushings? Have you checked to make sure the rack and pinion is tight?

Hello and thanks for donating!

If your vehicle's power steering is not operating and the fluid level and drive belt is OK, suspect faulty power steering pump.

Low power steering fluid level? Pump going bad?

Hey fixitmr found some info that could help hidme with his possibly low power steering fluid.I also posted a diagram showing where the power steering pump on a 3.8L engine sound's like that's the one he has and that's why he thinks it's sealed.

Because the power steering reservoir on 3800 V6-equipped vehicles is located behind and below the rear cylinder head, the fluid level may not be getting checked and/or topped off similar to other vehicles which have a reservoir that is located on the upper portion of the engine. This condition could be more prevalent with vehicles serviced at non-GM dealerships.

If you had it professionally done, then take it back andcomplain, they will fix it. You could have a clamp loose or a fitting not tightened orit may be residual oil hangingon the frame orengine someplace. It needsto bephysically lookedat to seewhereit'scoming from.