Power steering issue?

Tiny
JAMES BRYANT
  • MEMBER
  • 2006 MERCEDES BENZ ML500
  • V8
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 110,000 MILES
My lower radiator hose popped off. Because the clamp wasn't secure properly. A substantial amount of cool. Ant spilled out. In the course of that happening, the power steering quit working. The power steering fluid is full, so I don't know why the vehicle's power steering is stuck. Do you have any suggestions?
Wednesday, January 22nd, 2025 AT 3:42 PM

5 Replies

Tiny
CARADIODOC
  • MECHANIC
  • 34,330 POSTS
More than likely the drive belt is slipping over the power steering pump's pulley. You may be able to see that pulley turning very slowly, if at all, while the engine is running. It only makes contact with about a quarter of that pulley. If I'm right, the power assist will come back on its own. You can hurry it up by running a little water on the belt while the engine is running. Antifreeze is very slippery compared to water.

Let me know what happens.
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Wednesday, January 22nd, 2025 AT 6:41 PM
Tiny
JAMES BRYANT
  • MEMBER
  • 9 POSTS
Appreciate the prompt response. Thank you
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Thursday, January 23rd, 2025 AT 8:08 AM
Tiny
CARADIODOC
  • MECHANIC
  • 34,330 POSTS
Did it start working?
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Thursday, January 23rd, 2025 AT 12:40 PM
Tiny
JAMES BRYANT
  • MEMBER
  • 9 POSTS
I poured water on the serpentine belt as instructed, but to no avail, the power steering has not kicked back on. Like I said, the lower radiator hose popped off. I don't know how that would affect the power steering fluid when the power steering fluid is still full.
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Thursday, January 23rd, 2025 AT 2:16 PM
Tiny
CARADIODOC
  • MECHANIC
  • 34,330 POSTS
Watch if the power steering pump pulley is spinning. If you can't see it easily, stop the engine, then put a mark on it with chalk or masking tape. That will be easier to see.

While you're in the area of the hose, check if there is an electrical connector that became unplugged or damaged. A lot of vehicles have variable power steering assist that reduces the amount of assist at higher speeds where it isn't needed. Of course, that means another complicated computer and a flow control valve. Depending on the car brand and model, either of those components could be located near the pump.
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Friday, January 24th, 2025 AT 12:48 PM

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