Power steering problems can be surprisingly frustrating. Like many luxuries in life, once you get used to them being there, they start to feel more like requirements than luxuries. If you’ve ever suddenly lost power steering in your vehicle, then you know exactly what we’re talking about. Power steering used to be a luxury available on many cars, but far from a standard option. On a 1969 Mustang, power steering was an option available from the factory but cost an extra $94.95 to have installed! Today it is hard to imagine even the most economical of cars not having power steering standard.
Power steering systems have also evolved a lot since the option that was available on the 1969 Mustang. Many cars still use a simple hydraulic system but some have advanced to electric systems. The benefit of an electric system is that when the power assist isn’t needed the system can shut down. A traditional hydraulic power steering system is always sapping power from the engine because the hydraulic pump is running whether you need help steering or not. Some electric power steering systems use an electric pump to pressurize hydraulic fluid while others skip the hydraulics altogether and just use a large electric motor to assist in turning the front wheels. For more information on the benefits of each system, try reading Car and Driver’s review of the two types of systems.
Why is My Steering Wheel Hard to Turn?
If you are having problems with an electric power steering system you will most likely need to take a trip to the mechanic as they will have the right computer diagnostic tools to figure out what is wrong with the system.
If your vehicle has a more traditional hydraulic system and is having power steering problems, we’ll talk you through what your system needs to work so you can find the problem yourself.
To avoid power steering problems your vehicle needs:
- A good engine belt
- A good power steering pump
- Clear passageways
- The proper amount of clean power steering fluid
A Good Engine Belt
Your power steering system gets its power directly from your vehicle’s engine. This is done with a belt that runs from your engine’s crankshaft to the power steering pump. Some cars will have just 1 belt that snakes its way through all the pulleys on your engine, called a serpentine belt while other vehicles will have individual belts for each accessory. In either case, if this belt gets frayed, glazed or breaks altogether, it will definitely cause your power steering system to malfunction. If you have a sudden loss in power steering in your vehicle, a broken belt is a likely cause. If you simply have a squeaking belt, the problem may be an easy fix.
A Good Power Steering Pump
For a great explanation of your power steering pump, visit this How Stuff Works page for a detailed explanation! Since your power steering pump is a simple machine, the most common cause of failure for a power steering pump is the bearing going bad. The bearing supports the shaft that connects the pulley outside the pump to the impeller inside the pump. After miles of use, it is not unusual for these bearings to wear out. In most cases, worn bearings will start to hum or whine and will change pitch with your engine RPM. When they get very worn, they can cause leakage around the pump shaft behind the pulley and even allow the pulley to wobble. In this case, simply replacing the pump will get things back to normal.
Clear Passageways
Your power steering system’s lifeblood is the hydraulic fluid being pumped through it. The high pressure this fluid is at is used as a motive force for helping turn your front tires either through a power steering gear or rack. The actual mechanism for turning high fluid pressure into motion in your tires is relatively complicated and accomplished through a variety of small passages. If these passages become clogged it can cause your power steering system to malfunction. Unfortunately, clogs are very difficult to diagnose because there is no way to measure the pressures in your power steering system. If a clog is causing your power steering problems the first thing to do is to try flushing the system. If that doesn’t work, often times you have to replace the entire steering rack or gear.
The last and most common of the power steering problems you may encounter is a leak. First, your system may actually have a leak where it is drawing air into the system causing your pump to whine. This leak would be due to a cracked or loose hose in between the fluid reservoir and the pump. If you have a leak like this you will notice your power steering fluid getting foamy and your pump whining due to the air in the system. In this case, you can replace those hoses or tighten the clamps to stop the leak.
You may also have a leak on the pressure side. This leak could be where a rubber hose meets a hard line or at a seal on your power steering rack where it connects to your tie rods or where the steering column connects. These seals are usually not serviceable so to get new seals you would need to replace the whole steering rack or gear which can get expensive. An alternative would be to repair the seals in your power steering system to stop the leak using BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak. Simply pour a bottle into your power steering fluid reservoir and BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak will seal your power steering leaks as your drive fixing your power steering problems. Simply top off your system with the manufacturer’s recommended type of power steering fluid and have your car back to driving like normal quickly and inexpensively.
You can find BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak at any of our partnering local auto parts stores like:
- AutoZone
- Advance Auto Parts
- Bennett Auto Supply
- CarQuest Auto Parts
- NAPA Auto Parts
- O’Reilly Auto Parts
- Pep Boys
- Fast Track
- Bumper to Bumper Auto Parts Specialists
- S&E Quick Lube Distributor
- DYK Automotive
- Fisher Auto Parts stores
- Auto Plus Auto Parts stores
- Hovis Auto & Truck Supply stores
- Salvo Auto Parts
- Advantage Auto Stores
- Genuine Auto Parts stores
- Bond Auto Parts stores
- Tidewater Fleet Supply
- Bumper to Bumper Auto Parts
- Any Part Auto Parts
- Consumer Auto Parts
Pictures Provided By:
power_steering_problems.jpg – By MG_54 – Licensed by Getty Images – Original Link
BlueDevil Products can be found on Amazon.com or at AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, O’Reilly Auto Parts, NAPA, and other major auto parts retailers.
219 responses to "How to Fix Your Power Steering Problems"
219 Comments
Leave a Reply
Related Articles
anything for the famous ford power steering whine, have a 1999 ranger 4.0 and have replace the pump only to have it still whine, no clogs tried all fluids, atf etc, no luck??
ps, used the head gasket sealer on a dodge hemi and worked GREAT …..
Thanks
Skip-
First of all we are very happy to hear of your success with the BlueDevil Head Gasket Sealer in the past. Unfortunately, we do not manufacture any products that will help with the whine you are experiencing. Our Power Steering product is specifically designed to stop power steering leaks.
Thank You!
-BDP
What is the difference between this stop leak and the others on the market? I have tried several but still leaks.
Naomi-
Some oil additives are made specifically to increase the oil viscosity (make it thicker) and will often slow the leak but often times will not completely stop the leak. BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak works by slightly expanding, reconditioning, and rejuvenating the rubber seals & gaskets in the power steering system system. Once the leak is stopped it is a permanent repair; the product only needs to be added 1 time. After 1/3 of a bottle of BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak has been added you can expect to start seeing results within about 100 miles of driving. Our BlueDevil Product also carries a money back guarantee.
Thank you!
-BDP
I have the problem with the steering wheel change everything but no change,now I have to take it back to the shop,Will asked mechanic to try blue devil
Pamela-
Please contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 so that we can get a better understanding of the vehicle’s condition and to see whether you would be a candidate for BlueDevil.
Thank you!
-BDP
My car leaks about 2 teaspoons of power steering fluid every 3 days. Would Blue Devil work for me?
Tim-
Based on your description, you would be a great candidate for the BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak. You should expect to see results after about 100-200 miles of driving.
Thank you!
-BDP
Does blue devil make or sale a product that flushes the entire power system?
Anthonyl-
Unfortunately, we do not manufacture a power steering flush additive. However, you can simply flush the power steering system by pumping out the old fluid and refilling the system with fresh, clean power steering fluid.
Thank you!
-BDP
I own a 2008 Toyota Corolla(electric steering). I recently got in an accident. I was driving on the freeway @about 75mph when my car had vibration and felt wobbly and would not stay straight. When I tried to correct, the car seemed to over correct and sent my car out of control. I’m wondering what could’ve caused this to happen?
Cristina,
Thanks for your question about your 2008 Corolla. The problem you experienced sounds more like a failed steering linkage. If your steering to heavy or hard to turn it could have been due to a failure in your power steering system, but the vibration and wobbling at high speeds sounds like you had a tie rod end or ball joint fail while you were driving which would allow one or both of your front wheels to wonder significantly off track making your car unstable and very hard to control. We hope that you didn’t get hurt!
Thanks again for your question!
-BD Auto Pro
I replaced my power steering fluid I flushed it I put I put some new power steering fluid in Connected everything back together now when I try to drive my car it would not pull I will put it in drive but it would not pull or reverse
Alonzo,
Thanks for your question. It sounds like your car won’t move forwards or backward when shifted into drive or reverse. If that is the case, our recommendation would be to check and make sure the lines you flushed were power steering lines not transmission fluid lines. If you drained your transmission fluid, possibly through the transmission cooler lines, it would have caused the problems you’re having. Try checking your transmission fluid level and condition and going from there.
Thanks again for your question!
-BD Auto Pro
Can I use bluedevil power steering stop leak in a 2003 lexus es300?
Ashley-
Yes, the BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak is compatible in your Lexus. You will be adding 1/3 of the bottle into your power steering reservoir. You should start to see results after about 100-200 miles of driving.
Thank you!
-BDP
Hi every time I was turning my car my steering wheel would make a strange noise it was doing it for months then all of sudden my steering wheel just got hard to turn put power steering fluid in it and it loosened up a lil bit but still is hard to turn can you tell me what that problem may be
Dejena,
Thanks for your question about your power steering. Based on the fact that things got better when you added power steering fluid, it sounds like you’ve simply got a leak in your system. Add BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak (available here: http://store.gobdp.com/power-steering-stop-leak-00232/) to seal your leak, then top your system off with the proper amount of fluid. After you top things off you may have to drive for a few days and turn your wheels all the way to one side, then the other a few times to get all the air out and quiet things down.
Thanks again for your question!
-BD Auto Pro
My ps was stiff and whined. Just replaced the pump bled it and everything seemed fine. Went to back out, no steering and no whining. A little squeak from the belt possibly from fluid getting on it. Any ideas?
It’s a 2005 Honda Accord ex v6
Ashley,
Thanks for your question about your power steering. If I’m reading your question correctly, after you replaced your power pump you didn’t have any power assist in your steering. If that is the case, it sounds like you’ve actually got a problem in your power steering rack or steering gear. Your pump may have been whining due to an excessively high pressure due to damage or a clog in your steering rack. If this is the case it could cause your power steering to stop working altogether even with a good pump.
Thanks again for your question!
-BD Auto Pro
2002 Dodge ram 1500 …
I replaced the water pump n then as I’m pulling out my power steering went to a halt… Very hard to turn … Any ideas?
Hunter-
Thank you for asking about your Dodge Ram 1500. Does the power steering fluid appear to be low or did you notice any fluid on the ground? Are you hearing any noises when turning the steering wheel like a grinding or whining? Please contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 so that we can get a little better understanding of the vehicle’s condition and be able to make any appropriate recommendations.
Thank you!
-BDP
Hi my 00 Chevy Silverado still runs never had a squeaking noise, still have steering wheel fluid in the reservoir but hard to turn, can you please help me out
Edna,
Thanks for your question about your Silverado. It sounds like you’re in need of a power steering fluid flush. Old fluid can lead to small clogs in the system, poor lubrication or other problems that can lead to stiff turning in your vehicle. Try having your system properly flushed to remove all the old fluid and any clogs or debris. If that doesn’t get your steering back to normal it could be an indication that your power steering pump is starting to wear or you have a clog somewhere in your steering gear.
Thanks again for your question!
-BD Auto Pro
Good evening I had a previous PS pump that was making that loud whining noise even if I put in PS fluid, so I bought another PS pump. It is a remanufactured pump but now the steering is super hard and I can hardly steer the car.
PS I drive a 2011 Ford Focus
Ahleeyah-
Thank you for asking about your Ford Focus. Being that you have just replaced the power steering pump, it sounds like you may be losing fluid from another area of the power steering unit, ie the rack and pinion. We recommend using the BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak. You should expect to see results after about 100-200 miles of driving.
Thank you!
-BDP
Had power steering pump and belt both replaced and steering wheel still a little stiff to turn at all speeds. When I run through a rain puddle it gets better then once it dries it’s back to being stiff. What could be the cause of the issue please I’ve spent enough money on this issue.
Hi, is your product compatible with a Mercedes Benz C180 Kompressor?
Kevin-
Yes, BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak is compatible to use in your Mercedes. Per the directions, you should add 1/3 of the bottle for proper application. You can expect to start seeing results after about 100 miles of driving.
Thank you!
-BDP
Hi, I have a power steering leak from my 2008 ML350 (110,000 miles), very soft steering and no noise. Can I keep this problem and just add the normal red power steering fluid or this may worsen ? Mercedes dealer told me I have to fix it (cost around $ 1000) and it is NOT safe to add any “stop leak fluid” because it will harm the system.
What’s you advice please. Thanks.
Antoine-
We have safely and effectively used BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak in numerous BMW’s in the past. We recommend adding 1/3 of a bottle to your power steering reservoir. Once added you can expect to start seeing results after about 100 miles of driving.
Thank you!
-BDP
So will the car be safe to drive immediately.
The One-
Once the product seals, it would create a permanent seal. Typically, you should expect to see results after about 100-200 miles of driving.
Thank you!
-BDP
Hi I have a 94 ford territory never had a problem with the power steering until I was on motorway . the auto gearbox had been slipping for a while before this when the top radiator hose split when on motorway . got tow truck home and noticed split hose had light colored oil in it. Topped up gearbox oil and now power steering isn’t working but resiviour is full. Please help.
Brett-
Thank you for asking about your Ford Territory. Are you getting any codes popping up on the dash? Prior to the issue you had on the motorway, were you hearing any whining/grinding noises? You can try bleeding the system to make sure there are no air pockets or other restrictions. If that doesn’t help, your best option may be to bring the vehicle into a shop for inspection.
Thank you!
-BDP
My vauxallmariva power steering went about 8 weeks ago came back when I stopped the car took it to garage had it checked. has been going ok until today when it did it again so stopped engine and started up again it was back what do you thinkI should do about it .
Julia-
Based on your description, we would recommend using the BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak, found here: http://store.gobdp.com/power-steering-stop-leak-00232/ . As long as you are not losing fluid too quickly, you would be a good candidate for the product. You should expect to see results after about 100-200 miles of driving.
Thank you!
-BDP
There is a known fault with vauxhall meriva steering columns. Power steering is electric not hydraulic. It is highly likely that if you contact Vauxhall customer services and the fault can be proven to be attributed to this known issue that Vauxhall will voluntarily replace your steering column at their cost or at least assist in cost. Check out vauxhall owners group forums.
I have replaced the power steering pump, rack and pinion. Clean stop-leak fluid. No leaks are visible, more then enough pressure coming from the pump. Still has a whining noise. Need help.
Jeff,
Thanks for your question about your power steering system. Whining noises are usually caused by clogs in the system, air entrained in the fluid or a bad pump. Since you’ve replaced so much, the only likely possibilities left is that there is a clog in the high pressure line, there is air leaking into the low pressure line or the replacement pump you installed is damaged or not correct for your vehicle. Try checking the high pressure line for clogs and tightening the fittings or clamps on the low pressure line to eliminate those problems. It might also be worth checking to see if the pump you installed is an OEM pump or remanufactured.
Thanks again for your question!
-BD Auto Pro
Hi there,
I have problems with my 94 Toyota mr2, cold mornings steering very hard to turn, improves when car has warmed up, can hear wining noise from pump, I’ve also turned key off and on while driving strangely this improves steering. Fuild is topped up, any advise will be greatly appreciated.
Many thanks Darren.
Darren,
Thanks for your question about your MR2. The difficult steering could be an indication that your pump is failing, you have a clog in your system or you power steering fluid is simply very old. You can eliminate the problem of bad fluid or a clog by flushing your power steering system with clean fluid which will ensure you’ve got clean new fluid and will hopefully remove any clogs. If that doesn’t help, you may consider replacing your power steering pump to increase the pressure in your system.
Thanks again for your question!
-BD Auto Pro
Hi, is your product compatible with a toyota vios model 2015?
Manny-
Yes, the Power Steering Stop Leak is compatible with your Toyota Vios. You should expect to see results after about 100-200 miles of driving.
Thank you!
-BDP
Manny-
The BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak is compatible to use in your Toyota!
Thank you!
-BDP
My 2006 nissan altima has a power steering leak i changed the pump but still leaking from the bottom its small drops will bluedevil work on 06 nissan altima 2.5s base 4cylinders
Miguel-
Thank you for asking about your Nissan Altima. Based on your description, you would be a good candidate for the BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak. You should expect to see results after about 100-200 miles of driving.
Thank you!
-BDP
my 2004 Toyota minivan for a while intermitantly lost power on steering every now and then was fine for months now starting again and with lose of power. it made some type of clank sound fluid never changed but does not look like it leaked any ideas?
Alan,
Thanks for your question about your 2004 Toyota. Usually, an intermittent loss of power steering is due to a very low fluid level. If your fluid is up to the full line in your reservoir then that would rule out that possibility and would probably indicate an internal problem with your power steering rack. If the rack had an internal failure it would allow the high pressure fluid to leak by causing intermittent problems and maybe the clank that you heard.
Thanks again for your question!
-BD Auto Pro
While driving a 2013 Hyundai Elantra on a 3 lane highway at 100 k, without warning the car jerked into the left lane, then into the right lane, back to the left lane and then to the right lane, at which time the driver was able to get control of the steering and exit the highway. Any idea of what caused the car to take over the steering would be greatly appreciated. The dealer has not found the problem. This happened early in the morning on a Saturday or it would most certainly have caused a serious accident.
Rita,
Thanks for your question about your Hyundai Elantra. The problem you’re describing is really difficult to diagnose, it sounds like even for the dealership. I believe your car has an electronic power steering system, meaning there is an electric motor mounted to the steering column that assists you in turning the steering wheel. Our best guess would be that this motor malfunction and turned your car even when you weren’t attempting to. It may be worth having the dealership check the condition of that motor and its wiring to see if that could have caused the issue.
Thanks again for your question!
-BD Auto Pro
hi, i have a 2002 mazda etude recently i have noticed an oil patch on the ground where i park the car and i noticed that my ps oil level has droped and theres is oil on the belts and on the inside if the bonet. the car wheels still turning fine
Loyiso-
Thank you for asking about your Mazda Etude. As long as you are not losing power steering fluid too quickly, you would be a good candidate for the BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak, found here: http://store.gobdp.com/power-steering-stop-leak-00232/ . You should expect to see results after about 100-200 miles of driving.
Thank you!
-BDP
Can I use your stop leak on a 1999 VW Jetta?
Ja-
Yes, BlueDevil Oil Stop Leak is compatible to use in your 1999 VW Jetta. You can expect to start seeing results after about 100 miles of driving.
Thank you!
-BDP
Also, is your product available in Canada? London, Ontario to be specific.
Ja-
We currently do not have any retailers in Canada but the product can be purchased and shipped directly to you through our website: http://store.gobdp.com/oil-stop-leak-49499/
Thank you!
-BDP
I have a grand caravan 2009 with approximately 70000kms. I went to dealer to fixed the my steering problem but still after a few days until now I encountered the same problem it’s stiff & hard to turn the steering wheel specially if I did not warm up the vehicle. They change my reservoir, they flush the steering oil and put a new one. But still it’s not good until now. So please I really need your advise to solve this problem of my van.thank you in advance and more power..
Rolando,
Thanks for your question about your Grand Caravan. The first thing to do would be to check your power steering fluid level. If you have a leak you would find a low level in the reservoir and it would cause the problems you’re describing. If you do find a leak, use BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak (available here: http://store.gobdp.com/power-steering-stop-leak-00232/) to seal to leak. If you don’t have a leak, then it sounds like you may have a bad power steering pump and should have that replaced as well.
Thanks again for your question!
-BD Auto Pro
I replaced p/s pump and belt power steering was good for like 2 weeks … Then no p/s again so I replaced pump belt water pump and belt tensioner then I had power steering but belt was rubbing tensioner and frayed it.. so made sure p/s pump pulley was aligned bout new belt… Then the p)s went in and out, in and out.. like when I slowed down r turning I may r may not have power steering.
A friend of mine said part house gave me wrong belt , belt was not long enough.. ok… Got long belt fix fraying issue but I have NO P/S AT ALLLLLL NOW… HELP ME PKEASE ITS AV02 PONTIAC GRAND AM GT1 3.4 LITTER WITH VARIABLE ASSIT STERERING… PLEASE HELP IM SICK OF SPENDING MONEY.. .
Bobbie,
Thanks for your question about your Pontiac Grand Am. We’re assuming you’ve now got the right belt and pump pulley is spinning properly. Since your car has the variable power assist it’s possible one of the sensors has gone bad in the system, either a speed sensor on one of your wheels or a pressure sensor in your steering system. You may be able to have your system scanned at a dealership or mechanic with an advanced scan tool to detect a bad sensor or you may have to manually measure the sensor values. Another possibility is that you’ve got a clog in your power steering that is inhibiting the power steering fluid flow causing the steering to get heavy. A power steering fluid flush or new rack and pinion may solve this problem.
I have honda airwave ,just noted ps stiff and some noise from the engine ..not sure of the problem
Peter-
Thank you for asking about your Honda Airwave. The best place to start would be to check the power steering fluid level to see if the fluid is low. If so, we recommend using the BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak to help stop the loss of power steering fluid. You would be adding 1/3 of the bottle into your power steering reservoir, topping the system off with power steering fluid (as needed), and you should expect to start seeing results after 100-200 miles of driving.
Thank you!
-BDP
I have a Ford Fiesta and has a slight power steering leak I still have power steering and no noise or no burning smell
Sarah-
Thank you for asking about your Ford Fiesta. Based on your description, we recommend using the BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak, found here: http://store.gobdp.com/power-steering-stop-leak-00232/ . You can expect results after about 100-200 miles of driving.
Thank you!
-BDP
i have a 2007 mustang and i was out with friends and did donuts in a rocky parking lot and after that every so often i would lose power steering for 2 or 3 seconds and it would come back and i have no idea what is wrong with it. Also, sometimes when i put the pedal down hard you can kind of hear a squeaking sound over the engine and im not sure if that has to do with the belt or thats just how the car is made.
Bobby,
Thanks for your question about your Mustang. The donuts probably wouldn’t have damaged your power steering system, but it’s possible that running your engine at a higher RPM for an extended time could have damaged your power steering pump or overheated your power steering fluid. You might start with a power steering fluid flush if you haven’t performed one recently and see if that could remove any clogs or debris from your system that might cause the loss of power steering. The loss of power combined with the squeaking sound could also indicate that your engine belt is worn or glazed and needs to be replaced and is simply slipping on your power steering pump.
Thanks again for your question!
-BD Auto Pro
Can I use this BlueDevil stop leak to stop a power steering leakage in an 2008 Mercedes R350?
Jude-
Yes, the BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak is compatible in your Mercedes R350. You will be adding 1/3 of the bottle into your power steering reservoir. You should expect to see results after about 100-200 miles of driving.
Thank you!
-BDP
I have a 1997 Nissan Maxima. Ive just replaced the power steering pump about a month or so ago. The fluid is still full in the reservoir, but its extremely hard to turn my steering wheel again. What could possibly be wrong??
Tina,
When you replace your power steering pump you should raise your front tires off the ground and turn them from lock to lock while adding fluid to the reservoir to ensure your system is full of fluid before starting the engine to avoid damaging your new pump. If you’re sure the fluid is full and the new pump is working properly then you may have a very large clog in your steer rack that may be lowering the pressure and making your wheels hard to turn. If you suspect this is the case, you may consider performing a power steering flush to try and remove the clog. This could also simply be an indication that the power steer rack is worn out and is failing to provide power assist and you need to replace the rack.
Thanks again for your question!
-BD Auto Pro
I have a 2003 Honda and my power steering actually cuts in and out. It isn’t bad all the time, but it is some of the time. It seems to get better as I drive, like it warms up, but that isn’t always the case. It’s good sometimes and bad sometimes and is unpredictable. Any ideas?
Matt,
Thanks for your question about your 2003 Honda. Usually when power steering is in and out like this its an indication of a low fluid level, or really old fluid. Try checking your power steering fluid level first. If you find a low fluid level, add BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak (available here: http://store.gobdp.com/power-steering-stop-leak-00232/) and top off your system with the correct type of fluid. Also if you find old dark fluid, you may consider having your system flushed and fresh fluid added.
If neither of these seem to be the problem, then the problem’s you’re having probably indicate excessive internal wear in your power steering rack allowing pressure to bypass certain components and it may need to be replaced in the near future.
Thanks again for your question!
-BD Auto Pro
Thank you. This is very helpful.
hi i have a 2003 citroen xsara picasso when sat idle if i turn the steering wheel it makes the engine and revs fluctuate they rise then fall and the engine revs fall and sounds like the engine is going to cut out it hasn’t cut out yet and i haven’t experienced any loss in power steering when driving but would like to know why the engine keeps fluctuating when i’m sat idling the fluid is at the right level
Gavin,
When you turn your steering wheel it puts a significant load on your engine especially at idle speeds so it’s no unusual for your RPMS to drop when you initial turn the steering wheel. Most vehicles have a system to raise the idle when turning the steering wheel at idle to keep this from happening. You can check that system for proper operation by inspecting the vacuum hoses running to and from your power steering pump for cracks or brakes.
Thanks again for your question!
-BD Auto Pro
I have a 2012 Chevy Silverado 1500 . When you first start the truck and start to drive the steering wheel is hard to turn. After driving the truck for a few miles it gets easier to turn the steering wheel.
Basil,
Thanks for your question about your Chevy Silverado. The first thing we would recommend doing is seeing if your truck and steering system would still be under a factory warranty. Since your truck is so new, you may be able to have it inspected and fixed under a factory warranty.
If your truck is out of warranty, then you can start by checking your power steering fluid level. A low fluid level would cause the problem you’re experiencing and as you drive the fluid would heat up and expand allowing things to work properly. If you find a low fluid level, add BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak (available here: http://store.gobdp.com/power-steering-stop-leak-00232/) then top off the fluid with the fluid recommended in your owner’s manual. If you don’t find a low fluid level then you probably have a clog somewhere in your system and should consider getting a power steering fluid flush.
Thanks again for your question!
-BD Auto Pro
I have a 99pontiac grand prix gt.there is no power steering and no leak also no whining.there is a rear main leak and it gets on the belt.the belt is tore a little thinner.can’tAfford to fix the rearmain seal.what do I do?
Annie,
Thanks for your question about your Pontiac Grand Prix. The first thing we would recommend doing is replacing the engine belt on your car. If that belt breaks it will leave you stranded and should be a relatively inexpensive fix. That may also get your power steering working properly again. If a new belt doesn’t help and you’re sure the power steering system is full of fluid, then you may need to replace your power steering pump.
For your rear main seal, we would recommend you use BlueDevil Read Main Sealer (Available here: http://store.gobdp.com/rear-main-sealer-00234/) to seal the leak and keep your car safe.
Thanks again for your question!
-BD Auto Pro
My vehicle is a 2002 Olds Bravada.
I had low power steering fluid and when I filled it up it seemed fine. However, it usually works when I initially start the vehicle but seems to have issues after it has been driven for a bit. It is especially bad when reversing. That is when it doesn’t seem to work at all. I can usually get it to work again when the vehicle is cooled down and restarted.
suggestions of anything I can do myself? Regular driving is usually ok but I pull a trailer often and reversing is awful with a trailer and no power steering. That’s when I have the most difficulty.
Brenda,
Thanks for your question about your Oldsmobile Bravada. If your power steering fluid is full and you’re still having difficulty steering then you might have a worn power steering pump, worn steering rack, or a large clog somewhere in your system. It is probably most difficult in reverse simply because of the low speed and the direction of force on your steering knuckly. The only thing you can try doing is flushing the power steering fluid to see if that could remove a clog or allow the pump to be more efficient. If that doesn’t work, you may need to replace the pump or the rack.
Thanks again for your question!
-BD Auto Pro
I have a 2008 F150 and have a leak in the metal pipe that comes out of the bottom of the reservior
Will this stop the leak until I can get it fixed ?
Jerry-
Thank you for asking about your Ford F150. The BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak is only intended for the rubbers in the system. Unfortunately, BlueDevil does not manufacture a product for the type of leak you have described. A hard part repair may be your best option.
Thank you!
-BDP
hi BDP
thanks for reading my comment, my ps system make me sick. please help.
I have a 08 Wrx STI , I have air leak into the ps system everyday. Cold start my car will come with whining noise when I turn my wheels, lots air bubbles in the reservoir, but noise and air bubbles will gone after 5 mins when the engine warm up. Already replace steering rack, some hoses and also some oring on the pump. And also used different brand no leak fluid. problem still there. now my workshop suggest I change the pump as well. I can not see any fluid leak outside of the ps system. What I am thinking is somewhere is leaking air in when the car cold,and after I start my engine, bubbles went out and noise gone. but I can not found any leaking outside the system, so I am just wondering will the ps pump leak? do you think is a good idea to change the pump?
Thanks
Sam
Sam,
Thanks again for your question about your WRX and we’re sorry you’re still having problems with your power steering. The problem you’re having isn’t super common but other Impreza drivers have talked about the same thing. You may consider checking out some Subaru forums to see if you can find someone else who has discovered the source of the problem. Replacing your power steering pump may help, just make sure if you do you bleed the system of air by raising the front tires off the ground and turning the wheel side to side multiple times before starting the car. Unfortunately, since you’re dealing with a very slow air leak it’s going to be very difficult to find in your system.
Thanks again for your question!
-BD Auto Pro
I had a new power steering pump put on my 2008 Chevy Impala, it is leaking power steering fluid and once again whining and steering hard, what could be the problem?
Maria-
Thank you for asking about your Chevy Impala. Based on your description, we recommend using the BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak, found here on our website: http://store.gobdp.com/power-steering-stop-leak-00232/ . You will be adding 1/3 of the bottle to your power steering reservoir and should expect to see results after about 100-200 miles of driving.
Thank you!
-BDP
My vios 2007 had a electronic power steering problem heavy turning.power enough and PS indication on the hood.can this be reset by the shop having diagnosis test equipment.or is there any other problem.thanks
Ike,
Thanks for your question about your 2007 Vios. Yes, a mechanic should be able to use diagnostic equipment to find out why the power steering indication is on in your car. That should help you figure out why the steering is heavy and get things back to normal.
Thanks again for your question!
-BD Auto Pro
My car is toyota sienna 2000
When l turn the steering wheel to left sides is easy but when l turn to right side is very hard. Please help me out, thanks.
Tien,
Thanks for your question about your 2000 Sienna. The problem you’re describing could be anything from a clog in the system to bad steering component like a tie rod end. We would recommend having your front end checked first for alignment and bad components as that is a relatively inexpensive check. If everything checks out fine there you may consider getting a power steering fluid flush to see if that can clear up any clogs.
Thanks again for your question!
-BD Auto Pro
Hi,
I am driving a vios 2012, my EPS feels heavy when my car is in stand still. The P/S light is not on while driving, but yet it feels heavier to steer the car as compared to last time.
What would be the causes?
Thank you
Andy,
Thanks for your question about your 2012 Vios. Electronic power steering may become heavy due to a worn out motor so you may consider having your power steering motor tested to see how much current it is drawing. The heaviness of your steering could also indicate worn out steering linkage or even an underinflated tire.
Thanks again for your question!
-BD Auto Pro
i have a 2000 dodge dakota sport replaced rack and pinion, tie rods, belt and lines and it didnt leak for a solid month after replacing these parts and now it leaks on the passenger side boot on the rack …what could be causing it to leak after a month…the rack was a remanufacture product…
Cynthia,
Thanks for your question about your 2000 Dodge Dakota! It sounds like the remanufactured steering rack you purchased may have been slightly defective allow the leak to start so soon. Most remanufactured components like the one you purchased are covered by short-term warranties to guard against problems like this so our first recommendation would be to talk with the manufacturer of the part and see if they will replace it under a warranty.
You can also try BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak (available here: http://store.gobdp.com/power-steering-stop-leak-00232/) to seal.
Thanks again for your question!
-BD Auto Pro
My 05 nissan altima has a crack in the housing and the mechanic says replace it at the tune of $500. Will Blue Devil seal the leak in the cracked plastic housing? Thank you.
Tim-
Thank you for asking about your Nissan Altima. The BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak is only intended for the rubbers in the system. Unfortunately, a hard part repair may be your best option.
Thank you!
-BDP
2005 Buick Lacrosse. Stirring wheel very hard to turn on both sides. Reservoir is full. No noises coming from pump. When I then wheel to either side I hear hissing.
Irma,
Thanks for your question about your 2005 Buck Lacrosse. It’s possible that you’ve got a large clog in your power steering system reducing the pressure and making your steering wheel difficult to turn. You may consider having a power steering fluid flush performed on your vehicle to see if it can clear up the clog and get your steering feel back to normal.
The other possibility is that you’ve got a worn or damaged steering components like an inner or outer tie rod end. You may also consider having those components inspected and possibly an alignment performed.
Thanks again for your question!
-BD Auto Pro
My 2001 Volvo v70 XC AWD Wagon started doing something strange lately. Will be driving along and the steering tends to move to the right and then corrects itself. No leaks, pump sounds ok and fluid level is ok. Would adding this product help, possible a sticking valve in the rack and pinion system. Your response would be appreciated. Any comments/advise on this issue.
Charles-
Thank you for asking about your Volvo v70. Based on your description, the symptoms you are having lead more towards an alignment issue than a power steering problem. We recommend bringing the vehicle for an inspection and possible alignment job. If it turns out that a sticking valve in the rack and pinion is causing the issue, the product may be used to revitalize and recondition the rubbers in the system. Feel free to contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 with any other questions.
Thank you!
-BDP
Hello! Can i use The BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak on Mercedes Benz C320 W203 2000 year. Got problems with steering wheel pump, it does sounds when steering and when i checked oil level it was almost empty, so i added oil to max, now it`s better sound is less but still it`s there, under the pump there is oilly ground, and my car goes to right side, allingment is perfect and tiers are good. Any suggestions?
Edmunds-
Yes, the BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak is compatible and safe to use on your Mercedes Benz C320. You should expect to start seeing results after about 100-200 miles of driving.
Thank you!
-BDP
I appreciate this article about how to fix power steering problems. It is good to know that a good engine belt will help the system to work properly. It would be best to seek professional help when it comes to installing this belt to ensure that the job is done correctly.
I have a good one. 1981 Ford f100. I replaced the power steering pump and bled the system while front lifted. The wheels will turn all the way to the right on their own. New tie rods etc. Also put a remanufactured gear. Any ideas?
Ace,
Thanks for your question about your 1981 F100. It sounds like you’ve got everything replaced in the power steering system so that shouldn’t be the problem. The natural ability of your wheels to fall to center rather than one lock or the other is created by the caster. Caster is number of degrees that your steering knuckled axis is tilted backward or forwards. It is a normal value to have measured during an alignment, so it may be worth having an alignment performed on your truck to see if your caster is off and having it adjusted back to factory spec.
Thanks again for your question!
-BD Auto Pro
when i turn steering wheel,it make strange noise.what might be problem
Willy-
What kind of strange noise are you hearing? Please contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 so that we can get a better understanding of the vehicle’s condition and be able to make any appropriate recommendations.
Thank you!
-BDP
I changed my PS pump because it waqasleaking like a sive.After R&R the pumpfilling it with fluid,motor running pump spinning and cant turn the stering wheel. What do you think could be causing this?.I am a pretty big manand quite strong and I couldn;t turn the wheel with all my might.
Dennis-
Are you still noticing a loss of power steering fluid? Please contact our technical support team at 888-863-0426 so that we can get a better understanding of the vehicle’s condition and be able to make any appropriate recommendations.
Thank you!
-BDP
I have a shimmy from front end. My power steering comes and goes. I turn the car off and on a few times and its fine. What could this be
Brandy-
Based on your description, we recommend checking your power steering fluid to make sure it is at the proper level. If not, we recommend refilling your power steering fluid and adding the BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak http://store.gobdp.com/power-steering-stop-leak-00232/ to help stop your fluid loss.
Thank you!
-BDP
I’ve gotten my power steering pump fixed twice it a work one minute the next it wont the wheel a get stiff then it dont it does this when i driving xould it be a block in the system i have a 2007 kia Sedona
Hermione-
Thank you for asking about your Kia Sedona. Based on your description, it is quite possible you have some kind of a restriction in the power steering system. We recommend having the power steering flushed and filling it with clean power steering fluid. This should get you back to proper functionality.
Thank you!
-BDP
I got 2010 polo had my power steering pump changed in 2015 then last month I started seeing the power steering warning light goes on and off but the steering is working normal for few minutes then sometimes it becomes stiff for few minutes then goes back to normal while the light is still on,what might be the problem?
Siyanda-
Are you noticing a loss of power steering fluid? If so, we recommend using the BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak (http://store.gobdp.com/power-steering-stop-leak-00232/). If not, it may be that fluid has become dirty or that there is an air pocket trapped in the system. For this, we recommend draining the fluid and refilling the system with fresh, clean fluid.
Thank you!
-BDP
i have a 2004 mini cooper. I’ve changed my PS pump 3 times in the last 18 months, they keep going bad on me. no leaks, i’ve been replacing them with rebuilt pumps costing between 5-650 bucks, 2 doormans and one bosch. the bosch is in there now and currently on its way out, the bosch has been in there for about 3 months but started giving me problems the second month. thanks for the help
Eric-
Thank you for asking about your Mini Cooper. Your power steering system’s life blood is the fluid being pumped through it. The high pressure this fluid is at is used as a motive force for helping turn your front tires either through a power steering gear or rack. The actual mechanism for turning high fluid pressure into motion in your tires is relatively complicated and accomplished through a variety of small passages. If these passages become clogged it can cause your power steering system to malfunction. In most cases, these clogs will cause abnormally high pressures in the system which will cause your pump to whine and possibly fail prematurely. Clogs in your power steering system can be hard to identify but if you have a whining power steering pump or a difficult to run steering wheel this may be the cause. In some cases, a system flush and new fluid can clear the clog, but in some cases you may simply have to replace the power steering rack or gear.
Hope this helps!
-BDP
I have a 1998 Volvo S70 with a very little leak in my rack and pinion. It calls for ATF fluid in this model. Will Blue Devil power steering work in this type of system or not since it recommends ATF fluid?
Mark
Mark-
Thank you for asking about your Volvo S70. Yes, the BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak is safe and compatible to use in a system with ATF fluid. You should expect to see results after about 100-200 miles of driving.
Thank you!
-BDP
i have a 2006 F150 .after driving a while the steering gets looser but at first its real hard to steer. Tried the bleeding thing and it works for a day and then it gets hard to steer again. The belt is new. tensioner on the belt is working fine. Fluids are up and a nice colour with no burnt smell. what do you suggest.
Darrin,
Thanks for your question about your 2005 Ford F-150. If bleeding the system helped, but things went back to being stiff or loose quickly you probably have a clog somewhere in your system. You may also have a worn steering rack or gear as well, but since things changed with the flush, a clog or debris seems more likely. You may try bleeding the system again to see if it helps again and can final dislodge and remove the clog.
Thanks again for your question!
-BD Auto Pro
I have infinity G35, 2006 coupe with sports tuned suspension. I feel my power steering is stiffer than usual, and I got it check with Mr. Tire. The guy says, nothing visible on the outside (the ends of rack were little moist) , but inside the rack there might be a leak causing this issue. He says, I might need to replace rack in future. Can this product fix this issue? If yes, how to use it?
Thanks
Dhruv-
Thank you for asking about your Infinity G35. Based on your description, we recommend using the BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak. As long as you are not losing fluid too quickly, you would be a great candidate for the product. You will add 1/3 of the bottle into your power steering reservoir and should expect to see results after about 100-200 miles of driving.
Thank you!
-BDP
Did you get this fixed? If so what was the issue?
I have a Mitsubishi Outlander 2013 EPS system, in the last 2months my steering L + R turns is stiff and heavy feels like the car is heavy to move driving in a S like maneuver feels stiff just general driving is sluggish due to the steering though i do NOT have the EPS light On at the dash which is strange.
Is it possible that my battery may be low an may need replacing its 4yrs old has been in since i
bought it new from the dealer Dec 2013, even though it still working fine still turning the headlights and interior lights on i dont get a battery warning light. Hence allowing me to turn L+R properly providing me with no steering assist.
Do you think battery is worn out and there is not enough voltage getting to the EPS motor hence
I going back to the dealer but im abit obtimistic about them telling me cant find faults in there EPS scanning tool due to no EPS light no illuminating at the dash.
No EPS Light at the dash possible issues i think
??60AMP Fuse
? Battery being old 4yrs now may not be putting out enough voltage to EPS motor (Did leave the interior light on overnight for about ?10hrs might have drained the battery more)
? EPS motor malfunction
Jon-
Thank you for asking about your Mitsubishi Outlander. Based on your description, it is possible that the vehicle has developed a slight power steering fluid leak. We recommend topping the system off to the proper level and adding the BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak (http://store.gobdp.com/power-steering-stop-leak-00232/) to stop the loss of fluid. If the problem persists, you may want to bring the vehicle to the dealer for a proper diagnosis.
Thank you!
-BDP
Did you ever get this fixed? If so what was done?
I bought a 2004 Chrysler Pacifica about two months ago. For a couple of weeks — I haven’t driven all that time as I was on a business trip — my power steering has become stiff every once in awhile. I had to add a small amount of power steering fluid. The fluid level has been full. I still have had this happen a couple of times. The steering would respond on its own or if I turned off the ignition. Today, we had a severe thunderstorm and I had to go out in it. The steering became several times, especially on a road with a lot of water runoff. Do you have any idea what the problem is and does driving in the rain puddles have anything to do with it?
Thanks!
Richard-
Thank you for asking about your Chrysler Pacifica. Based on your description, a slow power steering fluid leak could be the culprit to your issues. We recommend the BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak (http://store.gobdp.com/power-steering-stop-leak-00232/) to help stop the leak and restore the system back to normal functionality.
Thank you!
-BDP
I have a 1968 Chevy c10 I replaced the steer gear bled out the air of the ground. I went to start the truck and the wheels hooked hard right and I can’t move them at all left. I shut off the truck and I can move it left and right again. I checked the fluids everything is fine and bled out what is your idea?
John,
Thanks for your question about your 1968 Chevy C10. Based on the wheels turning hard right after you started it, it sounds like there is an internal failure in your steering gear causing the high-pressure fluid to turn the gear without the input of the steering wheel. Our recommendation would be to see if you can get a warranty exchange on the steering gear you installed and to install a new unit.
Thanks again for your question!
-BD Auto Pro
Hi thers noise when turn left or right on my kia grand carnival 2007 and also very hard to turn when 30km or less so I change power steering fluid completely it improves a little but ok when just start the engine but when the engine heats up same thing happen again, whats your advice
Letitaia-
Thank you for asking about your Kia Grand Carnival. From the sounds of it, you may be experiencing a slight power steering fluid leak. We recommend using the BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak (http://store.gobdp.com/power-steering-stop-leak-00232/) to stop the loss of power steering fluid and get the system back to normal functionality.
Thank you!
-BDP
Hello, plz help I have a power steering problem on my Honda accord baby boy, I have changed the pump but the steering is still very hard to turn, please what else will I do?
Don-
Thank you for asking about your Honda Accord. You should first check to see that your power steering fluid is showing at the proper level. If the fluid appears low, we recommend using the BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak (http://store.gobdp.com/power-steering-stop-leak-00232/) to help stop the loss of power steering fluid and get the system back to normal functionality.
Thank you!
-BDP
I have a 1999 Lexas rx300 a little whining from power steering pump then without warning the steering became very hard to steer even after car is warmed up still hard to steer belts ok no leak to me sounds like power steering pump failure this happened without any erratic steering or fluid lose just whining noise please advise
Randy-
Thank you for asking about your Lexus RX300. Other than a faulty power steering pump, without noticing a loss of power steering fluid, an air pocket stuck in the system could be creating the whining noise you are experiencing. You can try draining the system and re-filling it with fresh, clean power steering fluid and see if that corrects the issue. If not, replacing the power steering pump would likely be your next step.
Thank you!
-BDP
I have a 99 toyota tacoma power steering want work, changed the pump, don’t see any leaks, pushing fluid out of the power steering pump lid
Wendell-
Thank you for asking about your Toyota Tacoma. As long as the system isn’t overfilled, fluid pushing out of the power steering pump lid is most likely due to air being trapped in the system. You may want to try bleeding the system or simply drain and re-fill the power steering fluid to get rid of the air pocket. If the problem persists, you may want to bring the vehicle in for a proper diagnosis.
Thank you!
-BDP
I have a 99 Ford Ranger. Had to slam on the brakes the other day and the truck shut off. It started right back up, but the power steering did not come back. What would you suggest for this? Why would slamming on the brakes make my truck have no power steering?
Brandie,
Thanks for your question about your 1999 Ford Ranger. The two possibilities we can think of that would cause your motor to stall when slamming on the brakes would be if you have a vacuum leak in your brake booster or if your transmission didn’t downshift or unlock the torque converter properly. First, if you have a leak in your brake booster a hard brake could allow that leak to be bad enough to stall your engine with all the air it was allowed in. That is a very rare thing to have happen, so it’s more likely that your transmission was actually holding back the engine from idling due to an issue there.
The other possibility is that the jolt of the stop simply caused a problem. Things like having a very low level in your fuel tank could have allowed fuel to slosh and your pump to become uncovered, or if your battery isn’t secured it could have moved enough to cause a momentary loss in electrical power to your engine.
Thanks again for your question!
-BD Auto Pro
Hi
Im driving a VW Jetta 5. The steering is stiff and it turns hard. I can’t find the power steering oil tank. So please help me out actually I don’t know what the problem.
Regards
E Tshabalala
Ernest-
Thank you for asking about your Volkswagen Jetta. Depending on which model you own, the vehicle may use electric speed-proportional power steering, meaning it does not have a power steering pump or power steering reservoir. Please contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 so that we can get a little better understanding of the vehicle and be able to make any appropriate recommendations.
Thank you!
-BDP
Hi I have an 09 Mazda 3, It was driving fine when I got home, then the next day I went to drive somewhere and the Steering wheel was very hard to turn and the icon for power steering was turned on the dash. I checked the power steering fluid and it is filled up so I’m confused what could have suddenly caused this to happen overnight?
Alan-
Thank you for asking about your Mazda 3. If the power steering fluid appears to be at the proper level, it is possible there is an issue with the power steering pump, not pumping the fluid properly. Are you noticing any kind of noise when turning the steering wheel, such as a whine or belts squealing? Please contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 so that we can get a little better understanding of the vehicle’s condition and be able to make any appropriate recommendations.
Thank you!
-BDP
2001 dodge stratus Power steering unit seems to be lacking when trying to park the car or turn into a parking spot at low speed‘s. Works fine and high speeds does this mean the filters clogged because it works from 30 miles an hour and up Have checked everywhere for leaks have checked all hoses And still can’t find out what’s going on. This happens when the car is cold or when the cars one has a problem turning on low speed’s 10 miles an hour or less and backing up turning at low speed. Do I check to see if the filter screen is clogged and empty the fluid first from the Reservoir?
Theresa-
Thank you for asking about your Dodge Stratus. Based on your description, we recommend draining the power steering system and flushing it out to get rid of any debris or potentially clogging substances. Then refill the system with clean power steering fluid and that should correct the issue. If not, you may want to bring the vehicle in to a certified ASE mechanic for a proper diagnosis.
Thank you!
-BDP
I have a 95 Ford Mustang I replace the rack and pinion along with the rest of the front end components recently. I started having problems with being able to turn the wheel so I replace the power steering pump. Still having problems so I flush the power steering fluid that was just recently put in when I get the rack and pinion. It was good for a little bit now having problems with it being hard to turn. What is causing my problems.
April-
Thank you for asking about your Ford Mustang. It sounds like you have already replaced most of the components of the power steering system. Are you noticing a loss of power steering fluid? If not, we recommend taking it to an ASE certified mechanic for a proper diagnosis.
Thank you!
-BDP
i just replaced my power steering pump and belt but my rack and pinion is leaking still just a little bit. am i a good candidate for blue devil
Phil-
Based on your description, you would be a good candidate for the BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak (https://store.gobdp.com/power-steering-stop-leak-00232/). Per the directions, you will add 1/3 of the bottle into your power steering reservoir and should expect to see results after approximately 100-200 miles of driving.
Thank you!
-BDP
Hi. I have a 2002 Ford Expedition. My truck recently had the fuel pump replaced and had been sitting for a couple of months. After getting that replaced and test driving my truck had absolutely no power steering. The belts are turning, the reservoir is full of fluid and there is no noise. What’s the first thing I should do? Should I try Blue Devil leak stop?
Brittni-
Thank you for asking about your Ford Expedition. If you are not noticing a loss of power steering fluid, it would not be necessary to use the BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak. The power steering pump may not be circulating the fluid properly, as it seems everything else is as it should be. We recommend bringing the vehicle to a certified ASE mechanic for a proper diagnosis.
Thank you!
-BDP
I have just fixed my power steering leak on my 2005 Ford Escape but the steering wheel is still hard to turn! Any suggestions?
Terry-
Thank you for asking about your Ford Escape. If you are no longer losing power steering fluid, the best place to start would be to drain the power steering fluid and refill it with clean fluid and ensure it is topped off to the proper level. Having air or lack of fluid would give you difficulty when trying to turn the steering wheel. If the issue persists, you may want take it to a shop for a possible power steering pump replacement.
Thank you!
-BDP
Hi I am sumon my car is Toyota Corolla 2018 .my car steering too much free I can’t control it and also going to right left automatically & also left side is tite and right side free .can you give any suggestion
Sumon-
Thank you for asking about your Toyota Corolla. Is it possible that the alignment is off? The vehicle should still be under warranty, so you may want to bring it back to the dealer for a possible diagnosis and fix.
Thank you!
-BDP
Hi having trouble with audi a4 b5 whilst going round a sweeping corner power steering pressure seems to change for a split second causing steering wheel to move about an inch then back again.have changed out fluid belt looks good and no noises from pump New mot
Gordon,
Thanks for your question about your Audi A4. Based on your description our best guess would be that your power steering system is losing pressure for a split second. It sounds like you just installed a new pump so the problem may be in your steering rack. If there is an internal failure it’s possible that under load it is allowing high-pressure fluid to bypass the rack for a split second which could cause the problem you’re feeling. Unfortunately, it would be very difficult to test the system to prove this is what is happening.
Thanks again for your question!
-BD Auto Pro
Thanks for your reply pump hasn’t been changed would you suggest this first and if the same do you think using bluedevil could be next move rather than removing rack cheers gordon
Gordon-
Yes, replacing the power steering pump would be an appropriate form of action at this point. When using the BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak, you will be using 1/3 of the bottle and pouring it into your power steering reservoir. You should expect to see results after approximately 100-200 miles of driving.
Thank you!
-BDP
Thanks great response thank you
When I first start my car my power steering works fine but after driving it for about 20 minutes it doesn’t work at all.. been this way for months….wtf?
Jony-
Does the system appear low on power steering fluid? If so, we recommend topping it off and adding the BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak (https://gobdp.com/product/power-steering-stop-leak-00232/). You will start by adding 1/3 of the bottle into your power steering reservoir, and should expect to start seeing improvement after approximately 100-200 miles of driving.
Thank you!
-BDP
I have a 2001 Ford expedition I bought new now I have a problem with my steering while driving it will jerk to the left and feels like I am driving on air then you will fill it click back to normal has done this for a while but getting worse, what could be my problem ? Thanks
Lanny-
Thank you for asking about your Ford Expedition. Does the steering wheel feel hard to turn? Based on your description, it more sounds like an issue with alignment rather than an issue with the power steering. If you have not done so already, you may want to bring the vehicle in for wheel alignment service.
Thank you!
-BDP
I’m having problems with a 2005 Honda Civic LX. The PS fluid level seems OK, I’ve only ever added a very small amount, since the full-to-add thresholds are so tight. Problem with Psteering occurs mostly when making left turns beyond, say, 20 degrees of road bend, and most often when making a left turn on or soon after an uphill incline. Forcing the wheel works, but a bit of initial resistance is felt, force is high before power comes back. Backing the steering wheel off, and reapplying the steering pressure sometimes works too. Symptom also seen occasionally making a right turn, but very much more seldom than to the left, even though right turns obviously sharper at intersections. Problem with demonstrating to mechanic is cannot make happen on demand. If I’m not leaking fluid, is this more likely to be a rack/valve problem or a pump issue, and why would incline make a difference?
Craig-
Thank you for asking about your Honda Civic. Based on your description, it more sounds like an issue with the power steering pump, not circulating the power steering fluid properly. Are you having any issues with power steering if not coming off an incline? Please contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 so that we can get a little better understanding of the vehicle’s condition and be able to make any appropriate recommendations.
Thank you!
– BDP
Hi, 1995 honda civic, my steering has gotten tight, harder to turn. When turning it sometimes has poor steer return and stays turning after i left go. Also feels like a boat now. Its like a delayed steering response. Also no leak. New upper and lower ball joints. The driver side lower ball joint hasnt been replaced yet. Just got an alignment about a month ago. Newer inner and outer tie rods. New suspension. Should i try adjusting the preload on the rack? Im kinda stumped. And hoping its not the rack and pinion itself.
Maybe the bushings?
Alex-
Thank you for asking about your Honda Civic. Based on your description, if the rack and pinion had gone bad, you would be noticing a leak. You can try checking your rubber bushing in the steering column and you can tighten your steering rack to see if that fixes the issue. With all the work you’ve had performed already, it would be your best bet to have the lower ball joint replaced.
Hope this helps!
-BDP
Hello, i have a ford focus 2 from 2005, PS fluid level it’s ok, cables works just fine, also i got on the yellow indicator with the steering wheel and exclamation mark , sometimes pop’s off and the again.
Drinkermate-
Thank you for asking about your Ford Focus. Being that you have the power steering warning indicator on, you can bring the vehicle in to have the code checked and have the issue resolved.
Thank you!
-BDP
My Mitsubishi chariot is putting atf fluid into the gearbox
What could be the problem
Samuel-
Thank you for asking about your Mitsubishi Chariot. Are you saying your gearbox is leaking or that ATF is leaking into your gearbox? Please contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 so that we can get a little better understanding of the vehicle’s condition and be able to make any appropriate recommendations.
Thank you!
-BDP
Hello, I Have a 1997 Toyota Corolla. My power steering isn’t working. At first it just want working and didn’t have much fluid. But the pulley also stopped turning so I had to take off the belt as to not damage it more. It looks disgusting on the engine area I don’t know if it’s a leak or a bearing. Or maybe I just have to get a new one?
Giovanni-
Thank you for asking about your Toyota Corolla. Based on the fluid being low when you checked it, it sounds as though you are experiencing a power steering fluid leak. We recommend the BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak for your issue. You will start off by adding 1/3 of the bottle into your power steering reservoir, and should expect to start seeing improvement after approximately 100-200 miles of driving.
Thank you!
-BDP
HI!! JUST REPLACED STEERING RACK SEALS AS IT WAS LEAKING, THE PROBLEM NOW AFTER 2/3 WEEKS I STARED HEARING NOISES THAT SOUND LIKE THERE IS NO FLUID IN THE RESEVIOUR, THE FLUID LEVEL IS OK NOT LOW, THE STEERING IS NOT STIFF THOUGH AND THE NOISE STARTS WHEN U START THE CAR AND CONTINUES AS THE CAR MOVES. MY CAR IS TOYOTA LAND CRUISER PRADO 3.4L 5VZ-FE
THANKS
Seabelo-
Thank you for asking about your Toyota Land Cruiser Prado. What kind of noises are you hearing? Is it like whining sound? If so, that may indicate that you have air trapped in the system that needs to be evacuated. If it is more of a grinding noise, that may indicate a different issue altogether, possibly bad wheel bearings. Please contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 so that we can get a little better understanding of the vehicle’s condition and be able to make any appropriate recommendations.
Thank you!
-BDP
Will this product stop a power steering gearbox leak from a 1998 Jeep Cherokee?
Gary-
Yes, the BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak would be able to seal the leak you’ve described on your Jeep Cherokee. You will add 1/3 of the bottle into your power steering reservoir and should expect to start seeing results after approximately 100-200 miles of driving.
Thank you!
-BDP
Hello, The electrically powered steering of my Opel Meriva vibrates with a noise always when I turn it to the right and at times, it’s very hard to turn it until I have to turn off and on the ignition. Any solution, please?
Larry-
Does the power steering fluid appear to be low? Unfortunately, we do not recommend using the BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak if your power steering system is electrically driven. Electrically driven system use a very specific type of fluid that has dielectric properties. Nothing should be mixed with these types of fluids. Your best bet would be to have the leaking seal/gasket replaced.
Thank you!
-BDP
I drive a 2011 Toyota Corolla
Sometimes when I’m driving it becomes too hard to steer and I have to restart the car to make it easier to steer.
Any solution please?
JoshA-
Thank you for asking about your Toyota Corolla. Does the power steering fluid appear to be low? If so, we recommend using the BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak. You would start off by adding 1/3 of the bottle into your power steering reservoir, topping the rest of the system off with power steering fluid, and you should expect to start seeing improvement after 100-200 miles of driving.
Thank you!
-BDP
My Toyota Avensis car get stiff when trying to turn and it have an electric type system. We removed the steering gear box and it was confirmed ok but yet we are yet to figure out what’s the cause of the stiffness. Even when on traffic the steering gets stiff is a very big struggle and a cause for concern. Don’t knw what to do next. The vehicle doesn’t have fluid pump like other cars
Kingsley,
Thanks for your question about your Toyota Avensis. Usually, stiff steering is caused by a bad steering assist motor in electric type power steering systems. If you’re sure the motor is good you might try checking some of the other inputs into the system like the vehicle speed sensors and your steering angle sensor. You should be able to check these sensors with an advanced scan tool at a dealership or mechanic.
Thanks again for your question!
-BD Auto Pro
Today while cleaning my car, once i was done i went to start my car so i could pull it back in the driveway. It would not start, so i jumped my car. I get in after it starts back up and was about to leave just to drive around. My wheel felt as if it was locked and i couldnt drive so i had my step dad get a new battery just to see if that would fix it and it did!! Light hasnt come on since.
I crankshaft changed because it was making some craking sounds when am about making a turn. After the changing the shaft, My cat began to misfire, My I’ve changed the plugs but it seems not to be the problem. please what do i do?
I had my crankshaft changed because it was making some craking sounds when am about making a turn. After the changing the shaft, My cat began to misfire, My I’ve changed the plugs but it seems not to be the problem. please what do i do?
Henry,
Thanks for your question about your vehicle. It seems pretty unlikely that the misfire you’re experiencing is due to your driveshaft being changing so our guess is that you’ve got a new problem. Misfires can be due to bad spark plugs, bad ignition coils or a dirty combustion chamber or intake valves. If you’ve already changed your spark plugs, we would recommend checking your ignition coils and using fuel system cleaner or getting a top engine clean done.
Thanks again for your question!
-BD Auto Pro
Steering is fine on my 07 dodge ram 1500 when the front end is jacked up. Once it’s lowered back I can’t turn the wheel and it has a squealing noise coming from the steering rack it sounds like. But has no air or leaks.
Adrian-
Thank you for asking about your Dodge Ram 1500. The squealing noise you are describing would typically indicate either air being trapped in the system or a lack of power steering fluid. If you are unsure whether or not that’s the case, you can try flushing the power steering fluid out and refilling with fresh, clean fluid. If the problem persists, it may be leading to a power steering pump that isn’t circulating the fluid properly.
Thank you!
-BDP
I am about to buy a 2010 Toyota Corolla. My mechanic, however, noticed the steering wheel got stiff occasionally. Car dealer says it was a battery problem and promised to give a new battery.
I fear the problem might recur after I buy it.
Do you recommend I buy that particular car or go for another one?
Olukayode-
Purchasing a vehicle is one of the most important investments we make, as adults, so you would want to be 100% sure that replacing the battery would solve the problem. It never hurts to keep looking.
Thank you!
-BDP
Will the power steering sealer seal a leaking brake booster as well?
Nate-
The product should not be used in brake systems. Unfortunately, we do not manufacture any products that are designed to help the type of leak you are experiencing.
Thank you!
-BDP
Hello
I used the Blue Devil Stop Leak on My power Steering Rack for a drip leak.
After I used the First application. 2.6 OZ I drove for two days and saw no results. On the third day there was no leak. I drove for three more days and saw a leak. I used a second application and was leak free for a week. I saw a small drop on the garage floor this morning. Is it possible that the leak is coming from the excess fluid on the Boot or the Frame? Im seeing some fluid on the boot. Not as before. apart from that, you barley even notice the fluid level going down in the reservoir.
Stefan-
More than likely, the power steering fluid you are seeing isn’t excess, especially if when you inspected it previously, wasn’t there. Power Steering fluid doesn’t go in the boot, so it would mean the rack and pinion seal is still seeping.
Thank you!
-BDP
I have a 05 dodge caravan it was squealing n whining put fluid in leaked back out tried sealer still leaked back out in few hours tried to replace the pump and still leaking, It seems to be leaking on passenger side by tire, any ideas why?
Sara-
Thank you for asking about your Dodge Caravan. Based on your description, it’s possible the rack and pinion seal is leaking fluid, even though the power steering pump was replaced. Unfortunately, it sounds like you may be losing fluid a little to quickly for BlueDevil to be effective. Bringing the vehicle in for inspection may be your best option.
Thank you!
-BDP
2007 Caddy DTS had a pressure hose leak and i tried to wrap it, then put foil around it and clamped it off( to catch the fluid so to keep the drip off my engine, then clamped it down. but i had to wait for a paycheck to fix it. every day for two weeks, it was throwing fluid all over the right side of my engine anyways. wo everything was soaked.
mechanics fixed and a deuces wonderful now
but when the mechanic started my engine now i have a check engine light . i didn’t an hour ago when i brought it in.
can all that fluid cause a problem and give me a check engine light now? i’ve read it cud be the switch, a bad battery, a bad alternator, lose pump belt, bad pump, or the reader says OC sensor
how do i REALLY find the real source why a repair cause the light to come on so fast ?
Deedee-
Thank you for asking about your Cadillac DTS. Based on your description, it may be best to have the mechanic that did the work hook the vehicle up to a diagnostic machine to have the code read. The most common cause for the check engine light to come on is a bad o2 sensor. It’s possible the original hose leak is the root cause, as the leaking fluid may have affected other components, but it would be difficult to say for sure without having the code read.
Thank you!
-BDP
Hi I have an issue with my 07 Honda Accord. When I pull my high pressure line from the steering rack fluid flows through and my ps pump stops whining but when I reinstall the high pressure line to the rack the ps pump starts whining again. My steering is very stiff. Any suggestions on what the issue could be. I would think its my steering rack that needs replacement but hoping its not that as the rack for these Hondas are quite expensive.
Raees-
Thank you for asking about your Honda Accord. Based on your description, it sounds as though you may have air trapped in the system. Typically, this would be the result of having a leak, possibly in the high pressure hose itself. We recommend bleeding the power steering system to remove all excess air and then reassessing the problem. If the whine persists, it may be time to replace the power steering pressure line hose.
Thank you!
-BDP
My boyfriend has a 1999 Ford Ranger XLT 4.0 4×4 truck. Awhile back while he was out in the woods getting firewood he got stuck, (I wasn’t with him, just going by what he told me happened) and upon trying to get out of the place he had the truck stuck, he caused the motor to get extremely hot. It got so hot that it MELTED the power steering reservoirs black cap or lid, the part that has the dipstick to check the fluid level. There’s now a hole in the lid, so it’s definitely not airtight, but I don’t know if it ever was or if it’s supposed to be? I know the system is under pressure on one side, would having a hole in that lid mess things up? After this incident in the woods the power steering went, he drove around with no power steering for a few months until the bearings locked up and he HAD to buy a new pump. He bought a new remanufactured pump, which didn’t come with a new lid or a pulley. We didn’t have the tool to get the old pulley off the old pump, do we had to buy a new pulley and the tool to put it on there with. The pump was still whining after it was replaced, he flushed as much fluid as he could ( by taking old fluid out and replacing it with new fluid over and over). He wasn’t aware that you are supposed to jack the front of the truck up and turn the wheels from lock to lock, to help rid the system of air , until I told him and he had already started the truck. Do you think this ruined the new pump he just bought bc he didn’t do that? Or do you think where that cap melted plastic could have gotten down in there and clogged something up? The power steering worked after replacing the pump for a week or two but now it is getting hard to turn again and making the whining noises,( but it’s whined the entire time, I tried to tell him that whining is from air trapped in the system and it’s not supposed to do that, but I’m a girl, what do I know?) Another thing I noticed is that on cold starts, the truck doesn’t want to idle right unless it’s under load which would make me think there’s a vacuum leak in the system somewhere. I’m pretty sure some PS systems use vacuum to regulate the idle fluctuation that occurs from the demand of the PS pump. I’m not real versed on Ford Systems, I’m used to tinkering with Chevys so I’m not sure what to think at this point. Do you have any insight? Forgive me for writing such a long post I was trying to provide as much info as possible. Thank you in advance for any info you might be able to provide.
Ember-
Thank you for asking about your boyfriend’s Ford Ranger. Yes, the power steering cap would need to be airtight, as to not allow air into the system. Driving the vehicle with a hole in the power steering cap would not be recommended, as air would constantly be entering the system and would not allow for proper flow of power steering fluid. It would also explain the whining noise you’ve been hearing.
It is possible that the overheating that occurred and the power steering reservoir cap melting could have caused internal damage. However, your assessment of the situation seems to be spot on. When installing the new power steering pump, you would have to bleed the system of air to make sure the pump is functioning properly. Once the new pump is put on and all the hoses and lines are reconnected, you can try flushing the lines with power steering fluid in case there are any clogs. If the problem persists, it may be best to bring the vehicle in for inspection.
Thank you!
-BDP
I own a Camry 2007,my steering goes very strong when ever the engine gets hurt.I just changed the steering pump but still having same issues.
Desmond-
Thank you for asking about your Toyota Camry. Have you noticed a loss of power steering fluid? Please contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 so that we can get a little better understanding of the vehicle’s condition and be able to make any appropriate recommendations.
Thank you!
-BDP
My power steering light only goes on when I drive on the highway( or higher speeds), and then after it turns on it immediately turns off so I have no idea if it’s serious or not. I have a 2007 buick lucerne if that helps. Thanks in advance.
Everegt-
Thank you for asking about your Buick Lucerne. Have you noticed any issues with the power steering other than the light turning on/off? Does the power steering fluid appear to be low? Please contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 so that we can get a little better understanding of the vehicle’s condition and be able to make any appropriate recommendations.
Thank you!
-BDP
I went to mechanic because a pipe of hydraulic power steering needs to change, my mechanic changed it and refilled with oil. After few miles i start facing problem like it turned hard sometimes and then again starts working properly what could be the possible reason behind it??
I’m not expert but i think there will be air in it.
Thanks in anticipation
Zeeshan-
Have you noticed any whining or humming noises when turning the steering wheel? If you feel like there may be an air pocket, bleeding the system is something you could do on your own. There are several DIY videos online that can help with getting you started.
Thank you!
-BDP
I have a 2016 Audi A4. I was exiting the highway when the power steering started making a loud whine. Within 2 miles it was completely dead and now quiet with no steering assist. What problems could I have?
David-
Thank you for asking about your Audi A4. From the sounds of it, you may have run into power steering pump failure. Does the reservoir seem low on power steering fluid? Please contact our technical support line at 888-863-0426 so that we can get a little better understanding of the vehicle’s condition and be able to make any appropriate recommendations.
Thank you!
-BDP
I have a RAV4 Toyota 2006 of which from time to time the p/s will just popped up and it will affect the gear from moving to drive or reverse it will be strong and also affect the power windows. please what can I do?. from Nigeria
Fabulous-
Thank you for asking about your Toyota Rav4. If the issues with the power steering are also being identified with the power windows, more than likely, you are dealing with an electrical issue or the wiring is bad. Either way, it would be worth bringing the vehicle to your local mechanic so they can diagnose the sudden loss of power and restore the vehicle to proper functionality.
Thank you!
-BDP