TB Automotive Guys...Steering Problem

[Vince S.]

I noticed within the past two weeks that it has become harder to steer my car. It's a 98 Nissan Pathfinder. At speed, the steering isn't too bad, but when parking or making a turn from a stop, it's moderately hard to turn the wheel. I checked the pressures in the front tires today, and they are 28 PSI in the left and 30 in the right. The maximum pressure is 35. I don't see any leaks underneath the vehicle, and no weird noises while steering.

Any ideas?

[mike_v_s]

Check the power steering fluid level. I'm sure there are other possibilities, but that's my contribution.

Mike

[hbarcat]

Sounds like the power steering pump has failed.

[Grizzly700]

Originally Posted by mike_v_s

Check the power steering fluid level. I'm sure there are other possibilities, but that's my contribution.

Mike

+1

[mike phillips]

usually if its the p/s pump you will hear a whirin noise when steerin. if its a belt you will hear a squeel when the pump is under load. now i dont know about nissan but it could be the rack if it is rack and pinion steerin. it could be a u joint needin grease. check the p/s fluid to see if it metallic lookin or burnt. your nissan is rack and pinion. again check the fluid for metallic particles. i know gm had a problem with rack bushins because i replaced a ton of em.