Q: Loud rattling from power steering pump

asked by on March 16, 2016

I hear a loud rattling sound coming from the power steering pump, even when I am not turning. The rattle gets much louder if the wheels are turned all the way to the right or left. The power steering pump has been leaking, and definitely needs to be replaced eventually. I just wonder if this is a problem with the pump or the serpentine belt?

Power steering fluid is leaking Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

From the symptoms you describe on your Kia and the leaking you are observing, it sounds like the power steering pump is failing internally. This is due to running low on power steering fluid. The power steering pump plays an important role in keeping your car turning smoothly, therefore I highly recommend enlisting the assistance of a certified mechanic to perform this repair as soon as possible. The serpentine belt is also removed during this repair, so the mechanic will be able to inspect it and determine if a new belt is needed as well. They will have the experience and tools needed to make a quality repair and keep your power steering from leaking.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

What tire size should I use and what inflation pressure should I set them at?
Your tires provide you with traction, stability and performance on the road. Of course, they wear out over time and you’ll need to replace them eventually. It’s very important that you replace them with the right size tires, and that...
How do I add oil to my car?
If your vehicle is low on oil, you can add more. To do so, simply remove the cap to the oil filler, and add a small amount of oil. Check the dipstick to see where the level is, and repeat...
AC knocking when it is turned on
Hi there. It sounds to me as if your AC's fan is interfering with something in the track of its spinning. Also your issue can point to your AC compressor clutch not gripping the pulley correctly. I'd suggest having a...
Car hissing and overheating
This could be an indication of either a cooling system issue, or possibly a head gasket. Never check the cooling system on a hot engine, or when the system is pressurized, or serious injury may result. The cooling system will...
whole front end making diffrent noises
Hello. From what you describe it appears to me that your vehicle may be having several, separate, issues, some of which may require urgent attention. The metal clashing sound you hear when going over a bump may or may not...
The car has no compression and there is a lot of oil in the cylinders how would I fix this?
Hi and thank you for contacting YourMechanic. If there truly is no compression and signs of oil inside the cylinders (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/oil-is-leaking-into-spark-plug-well-inspection), the only way to fix this issue is to have the engine rebuilt. The piston rings are worn or...
Overheating - 2007 Nissan Altima
Hi there. A stuck (closed) thermostat (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/thermostat-replacement) will overheat very quickly, in a matter of a few minutes. If a water pump has a broken shaft, so that the impeller is not turning, the failure will look the same, very...
Brake Fluid Level Insufficient Warning Sign Error
This may suggest that your brake pads are worn and due to be replaced or that you have a leak (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/brake-fluid-is-leaking-inspection) somewhere in your brake hydraulic system. The brake reservoir has a sensor inside that detects when the brake fluid...
Need to know where the ground wires for the motor to frame are located.
Hi there. Check the back of the engine around the cylinder head. The wire will either be a silver color wire and also black in color. The wire will connect to the frame or the body with an alternate ground...

Related articles

The Best Used Cars to Buy If You Live in a Tropical Climate
If If you live in a tropical climate, most of your vehicle purchasing concerns will be essentially the same as if you lived anywhere else – you want a car that looks good, offers decent gas mileage, and suits the...
2010 Hyundai Santa Fe vs. 2010 Kia Rondo: Which One Should I Buy?
There are two different classes of vehicle represented here: the 2WD SUV in the Santa Fe and the mid-size station wagon or crossover SUV in the Kia Rondo. The difference between these two classes may seem slight, but the crossover...
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Steering Rack/Gearbox
Common signs include a very tight steering wheel, leaking power steering fluid, grinding noises when steering, and a burning oil smell.