Power steering issue

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ElZorro
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Power steering issue

Post by ElZorro »

Forester is acting a little funny. In the mornings (in particular on the < 50 degree mornings we've had lately) the power steering is extremely weak, as in it takes two hands on the wheel to get the wheel cranked over. I am also getting a high pitched squeel when the wheel is at lock on either side. Power steering fluid level looks good. Any other things to check?

Car has about 96k on it. Had some suspension stuff in the front that was fixed back at about 35k.
Jason "El Zorro" Fox
'17 Subaru Forester 2.0XT
DCAWD - old coots in fast scoots.
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sirwilliam
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Re: Power steering issue

Post by sirwilliam »

ElZorro wrote:Forester is acting a little funny. In the mornings (in particular on the < 50 degree mornings we've had lately) the power steering is extremely week, as in it takes two hands on the wheel to get the wheel cranked over. I am also getting a high pitched squeel when the wheel is at lock on either side. Power steering fluid level looks good. Any other things to check?

Car has about 96k on it. Had some suspension stuff in the front that was fixed back at about 35k.
Replace the steering bushing and the fluid while you are at it. I have a whiteline one if you want it...got it for the '04 but never used it. I know the '04's bushing is pretty wimpy/weak but I can't guarantee that will fix it but it should help.
2004 SG Model A PearlBlackObsidian (RIP)
2008 SG Model D BlueRallyWorld

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complacent
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Re: Power steering issue

Post by complacent »

Check the belt. The belt will make the noise if slipping and will cause difficulty turning.

As your attorney in this matter, I advise you install an STi steering rack post haste 8)
colin

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sirwilliam
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Re: Power steering issue

Post by sirwilliam »

complacent wrote:Check the belt. The belt will make the noise if slipping and will cause difficulty turning.

As your attorney in this matter, I advise you install an STi steering rack post haste 8)
Yes, it does sound more like the belt but I would check the bushings while you are at it. Usually, they will look like swiss cheese after lots of mileage.

As council in addition to your attorney, I advise you buy the STi steering rack. Then fix your stock steering and then graciously give me your STI steering rack out of the kindness of your heart.
2004 SG Model A PearlBlackObsidian (RIP)
2008 SG Model D BlueRallyWorld

"When I get sad, I stop being sad and be awesome instead. True story." -Barney Stinson
"Nothing shuts my pie-hole but pie." -Shawn Spencer
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sirwilliam
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Re: Power steering issue

Post by sirwilliam »

2004 SG Model A PearlBlackObsidian (RIP)
2008 SG Model D BlueRallyWorld

"When I get sad, I stop being sad and be awesome instead. True story." -Barney Stinson
"Nothing shuts my pie-hole but pie." -Shawn Spencer
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ElZorro
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Re: Power steering issue

Post by ElZorro »

You guys are awesome. :) Fluid was changed out not too long ago as part of a regular service, but certainly could be the belt. The car is well enjoyed, things like this are going to start happening.
Jason "El Zorro" Fox
'17 Subaru Forester 2.0XT
DCAWD - old coots in fast scoots.
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Sabre
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Re: Power steering issue

Post by Sabre »

Steering rack bushing will certainly help no matter what. They are a 30-45min. install and fairly cheap. After 110k, mine were almost worn through. I have a feeling Colin hit it on the head though with the belt.
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