How to fix power steering pump whine?
Power steering pump whine is a common issue that can be both annoying and indicative of underlying problems in your vehicle's steering system. At Kevin's Autos, with years of experience in car maintenance and repair, we’ve seen this issue countless times and know how to address it effectively. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to diagnose and fix power steering pump whine, ensuring your car runs smoothly and quietly.
What Causes Power Steering Pump Whine?
Before diving into the fix, it’s important to understand the common causes of power steering pump whine. This noise typically occurs when the pump is under strain or when there’s an issue with the hydraulic fluid. Here are the most common reasons:
- Low Power Steering Fluid: Insufficient fluid levels can cause the pump to suck in air, leading to a whining noise.
- Contaminated Fluid: Dirt or debris in the fluid can reduce its effectiveness and cause noise.
- Worn or Damaged Pump: Over time, the pump’s internal components can wear out, leading to whining sounds.
- Loose or Worn Belts: The serpentine belt that drives the pump may be loose or worn, causing additional strain.
Steps to Fix Power Steering Pump Whine
Follow these steps to diagnose and fix the issue:
- Step 1: Check the Power Steering Fluid Level
Locate the power steering fluid reservoir under the hood. Check the fluid level using the dipstick or markings on the reservoir. If it’s low, top it off with the manufacturer-recommended fluid. Be careful not to overfill.
- Step 2: Inspect the Fluid for Contamination
If the fluid appears dark or contains debris, it’s time to flush and replace it. Contaminated fluid can damage the pump and other components.
- Step 3: Bleed the Power Steering System
Air trapped in the system can cause whining. To bleed the system, turn the steering wheel fully left and right several times with the engine running. This will help remove air bubbles from the fluid.
- Step 4: Inspect the Serpentine Belt
Check the belt for signs of wear, cracks, or looseness. Replace or tighten the belt as needed to ensure it’s functioning properly.
- Step 5: Test the Pump
If the noise persists after addressing the above issues, the pump itself may be damaged. In this case, it’s best to consult a professional mechanic to repair or replace the pump.
Preventing Power Steering Pump Whine
To avoid future issues with your power steering pump, follow these maintenance tips:
- Regularly check and maintain the power steering fluid level.
- Flush and replace the fluid as recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer.
- Inspect the serpentine belt during routine maintenance and replace it if necessary.
- Address any steering system issues promptly to prevent further damage.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you’ve followed these steps and the whining noise persists, it’s time to bring your vehicle to a trusted auto repair shop like Kevin’s Autos. Our experienced technicians can diagnose and fix the issue quickly, ensuring your car is back on the road in no time. Don’t let a noisy power steering pump ruin your driving experience—contact us today!
Frequently Asked Questions
How to bleed air out of power steering pump?
IIRC, to bleed the PS rack you need to jack the front end of the car up, start the engine and then turn the wheel to just before the stop and hold it for a minute, and then repeat in the opposite direction until the pump quiets down (meaning the air in the rack has been worked out of the system.)
How do you get air out of power steering without a vacuum pump?
You remove the lid of the fluid reservoir, top up the fluid, and turn the steering wheel from lock to lock a few times. This should remove the air from the system. The you top up the fluid again - if it needs it, and repeat the process until it doesn't.
Can you fix power steering whine?
You will need to flush the power steering fluid in order to get rid of the pesky air pockets if you find this is the cause of the noise. However, to avoid any more air getting trapped in the fresh fluid, ensure you check all the connections from the reservoir to the pump, tightening any loose ones.
How do you quiet down a power steering pump?
How to Silence Power Steering Pump Noise
- Make sure the rack isn't clogged.
- Make sure the pump is in good condition.
- Check the fluid level.
- Check the fluid condition.
What additive stops power steering whine?
Rislone High Mileage Power Steering Stop Whine with Leak Repair contains a special blend of viscosity improvers, anti-wear friction modifiers and extreme pressure performance additives to solve most power steering problems.
How do you fix a pump whine?
To solve the issue, you can take the following actions:
- Throttle the pressure-side valves until the noises are eliminated.
- Trim the impeller diameter.
- Reduce pump speed.
- Add a flow recirculation line.
- Install a variable frequency drive and remove control valves.
Is it bad to drive with a whining power steering pump?
Can I drive my car with power steering whine? While it's possible, driving with a whining power steering system should be temporary. Ignoring the issue can lead to further damage and potentially unsafe driving conditions.
What happens if you don't bleed power steering?
What if I don't bleed my power steering? Delaying this can lead to harder steering, premature pump failure or a noisy pump. It is not advisable to drive the car before this issue has been resolved.
