Power Steering Pump Noise

What It Is

The hydraulic power steering pump pressurizes fluid to assist steering effort. When fluid is low, contaminated, or the pump's internal vanes or pressure ring are worn, the pump generates a high-pitched whine or groan that is most noticeable at low speeds and during full-lock turns. Electric power steering systems do not have a pump but produce different mechanical noises when the motor or rack wears.

Symptoms

• • High-pitched whine or groan that is loudest when turning the wheel
• • Noise intensifies at full steering lock in either direction
• • Harder-than-normal steering effort, particularly at parking speeds
• • Fluid level low in the power steering reservoir
• • Fluid appears dark brown or black rather than clear pink or red
• • Groaning or sucking sound when turning, distinct from a clean whine

Hydraulic power steering pump wear is common on high-mileage F-150 trucks, Silverado pickups, and older Camry V6 models; modern Camry and many new trucks use electric power steering and are not affected.