How to Quiet a Whining Power Steering System in 10 Minutes

Why is Your Steering Wheel Whining?

If your car makes a loud, high-pitched whining or groaning noise whenever you turn the steering wheel, your power steering system is likely starved of fluid. Running the system dry can cause permanent damage to your expensive power steering pump. Fortunately, checking and topping off your power steering fluid is a simple, 10-minute DIY job that requires only a bottle of fluid and a clean rag.

Tools and Materials Needed

• Correct power steering fluid (Check your owner's manual for the exact specification, as some cars use automatic transmission fluid).
• A clean rag or paper towel
• A small funnel (optional, but highly recommended to prevent spills)

Step 1: Park on Level Ground and Prep the Car

Park your vehicle on a flat, level surface, set the emergency brake, and turn off the engine. Some manufacturers recommend checking the fluid while the engine is warm, while others recommend checking it cold. Check your owner's manual, but most power steering reservoirs feature markings for both 'Hot' and 'Cold' levels.

Step 2: Locate the Power Steering Reservoir

Pop the hood and locate the power steering fluid reservoir. It is typically a small, translucent or black plastic tank located near the accessory belts. The cap is usually labeled with the words 'Power Steering' or a symbol of a steering wheel. If you have trouble finding it, consult your vehicle's manual.

Step 3: Clean the Cap and Area

Before opening the reservoir, use a clean rag to thoroughly wipe down the cap and the surrounding area. Power steering systems are highly sensitive to dirt and debris; even a tiny speck of grit can damage the pump's internal seals.

Step 4: Check the Fluid Level

If your reservoir is translucent, you can read the level directly through the plastic side. Look for the 'Min/Max' or 'Hot/Cold' lines. If the reservoir is opaque, unscrew the cap. On the underside of the cap, you will find a small integrated dipstick. Wipe the dipstick clean with your rag, screw the cap back on fully, remove it again, and check where the fluid level falls relative to the indicator lines.

Step 5: Top Off the Fluid

If the fluid level is below the minimum or 'Cold' mark, it is time to add fluid. Place your funnel into the reservoir opening and slowly pour in the recommended power steering fluid. Do not overfill, as the fluid expands when hot. Add a small amount at a time, checking the level frequently with the dipstick or reservoir lines.

Step 6: Replace the Cap and Bleed the System

Securely tighten the reservoir cap. To purge any trapped air bubbles that might be causing the whine, start your car's engine. While parked, slowly turn the steering wheel all the way to the left, then all the way to the right (lock-to-lock) three to five times. Turn off the engine and double-check the fluid level one last time, topping off if the level dropped slightly as air was released.