Q: Power steering, leak, and groaning noise.

asked by on September 30, 2016

At first the car didn't not make no noise when turning it was jus extremely hard, absolutely no power steering at all, and no noises either. So I added fluid because it was empty. Now the car makes a horrible groaning sound when turning the wheel. I checked the fluid level the next day it was completely dry. So I topped it off with power steering fluid and it was empty again in 10 mins. Is this most likely an issue with my pump or a leaking line somewhere?

My car has 126000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Oil/Fluid Leak Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote
Car is making a noise Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hi, thanks for writing in. This is a sign of a failing power steering pump which is what the groaning sound and stiff steering will come from. It also sounds like you have a major leak coming from somewhere.

If you would like help, consider having an expert automotive technician from YourMechanic come to your home or office to inspect and diagnose this issue for you, and make or suggest any repairs as needed.

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

Car hesitates when accelerating from stop.
You do not mention a check engine light is on so a computer sensor may or may not be the cause. The throttle body (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/throttle-body-replacement), air filter (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/air-filter-replacement) or fuel filter (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/fuel-filter-replacement) may be dirty and restricting air or fuel...
Trans shifts when cold gets stuck in 2nd when temp hits about 210
Hello. A transmission that gets stuck in 2nd gear can be caused by a few things. A few possible causes are, as you suspected, a faulty speed sensor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/speed-sensor-replacement), a faulty shift solenoid, or even a mechanical issue. The speed...
I've just had my car aligned and new tires put on, and my car when at highway speeds feels loose, and wanders from side to side.
Hi. It sounds like there may be some loose suspension and steering parts in the front end of your car. There is a possibility that the steering parts that were loosened to do the alignment were not tightened all the...
2003 dodge neon with 2001 engine swap now it won't start replaced cps and cam sensor what could it be
Hi there: Without being there to inspect the installation work or complete a diagnostic scan to see if you have any error codes, it's nearly impossible for us to help you with this issue. Like any major repair, you might...
The pvc valve went bad and ruin the turbo. What else can be effected? 2016 Buick Encore
Hi - I am wondering if you mean the turbocharger pressure control valve (https://www.yourmechanic.com/question/where-is-the-map-turbocharger-boost-sensor-located-by-colton-n_2), sometimes called a "pop-off" valve, may have failed, over-pressuring the engine? this could cause serious damage to many parts of the engine. The PCV (positive crankcase...
i was driving my acura integra , i had stopped at a red light i out it in 1st gear but wasn´t going nowhere like if my e brake was
Hello, thank you for writing in. The lack of transmission fluid is why you are not able to send the power from the engine to the wheels. The first step is to identify and fix the cause of the transmission...
Where is the 2009 camshaft position sensor located
The camshaft position sensor on this vehicle is attached to the timing chain cover. Note that replacement will require a PCM re-learn procedure in order for the engine to work properly. These sensors MUST be directly tested (or observed via...
2007 Land Crusier Transmission trouble codes P2500/P2502/P2211
P2502 and P2500 (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/p2500-obd-ii-trouble-code-generator-lamp-l-terminal-circuit-low-by-jamahl-walker) relate to vehicle electrical system faults, particularly the battery/charging system, although both codes can also implicate a faulty PCM (rare, though, absolute last thing to consider). The third code relates to an emission system sensor and...
I have a 2007 Ford Taurus that doesn't crank or start and the anti theft light goes off when I turn the key
If the problem is simply no starter motor operation the fault is typically quite limited. With a fully charged battery that passes a load test, or a new fully charged battery as required, and the immobilizer (security) system off -...

Related articles

Top 10 Factors to Consider When Buying a Luxury Car
The The idea of owning a luxury car is appealing. The glossy paint, swoopy lines, and prestigious badges speak of the owner’s success in life, while the interior opulence offers scented leather surfaces, high-tech telematic devices, and all the creature-comfort...
How Often Should Hoses Be Replaced?
Your Your engine needs coolant, the power steering rack needs fluid, and the calipers need fluid to squeeze the rotors to stop the car. Most fluids make their way to their destination through hoses. Those hoses are generally made of...
How Long Does a Valve Cover Gasket Last?
Among Among the most important parts of any engine is the oil that is contained within it. There are a variety of moving parts that depend on the oil for lubrication. The valve cover goes on top of the engine...