GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Leaks from the power steering gear and the power steering pump may cause the following conditions:

    • Fluid leakage on the garage floor
    • Visible fluid leaks on the steering gear or pump
    • Growling noise, especially when parking or when the engine is cold
    • The loss of power steering when parking
    • Heavy steering effort

Perform the following actions in order to diagnose leaks from the power steering gear and the power steering pump:

    • With the engine off, wipe dry the complete power steering system.
    • Inspect the components for damage.
    • Inspect the fluid level in the reservoir. Refer to Checking and Adding Power Steering Fluid .
    • Inspect for bubbles in the fluid.
    • Inspect the hoses and the pipes for loose fittings. Reset the fittings to the proper tightening specifications. Refer to Fastener Tightening Specifications .
    • Inspect for an external leak in the power steering system. Refer to External Leakage Check .
    • Test for an internal leak in the power steering system. Refer to Power Steering System Test .