JP_GD2004

I have a 1993 Grand AM GT. The steering has been whining lately and is worse in the cold. It whines just sitting still, but whines more when I turn. I have checked the power steering fluid, by not since it's gotten worse. Along with the low whine, it also makes the sound like it normally makes when you turn the steering wheel all the way to the right or to the left.

Can anyone tell me what this is caused by and/or what I should look for to repair it?

Thanks!

JP_GD2004

Update: I checked the power steering fluid today just after I shut it off and it looked to be where it should be.

ca2stay

It's possible that there's air in the system, but more than likely it sounds like the pump is shot. You can replace it now or you can drive it until it starts sticking and then replace it. You may be able to drive it for quite a while before it fails. How many miles on this vehicle?

JP_GD2004

Thanks for your reply!

It just changed over to 165,000 miles today. I figured it might be the pump. Will driving it that way hurt anything else?

Also, what's a good price for a pump and do I need to get anything else with it? I've seen prices anywhere from $30 to $90.

Is it hard to replace?

ca2stay

If the pump's bad, it won't hurt anything else until it starts sticking - even then you'll have plenty of time to replace.

R&R is easy depending on your comfort level. If you can handle an alternator R&R, then you can do this one. The 3.1L will require you to remove an engine mount (according to Chilton's. I think its at the top of the engine) but all the other engines (4 & 6) look like its a straight forward job.

Disconnect - battery cable
If equipped, detach Variable Effort Steering connector
Remove serpentine belt
Unfasten power steering pump-to-engine bolts
Pull pump forward and disconnect and plug pressure tubes (BTW, they leak so have a cloth handy)
Installation is the reverse & you'll have to bleed the system. This is accomplished by raising the front wheels off the ground and turning the steering wheel lock-to-lock at least 20x w/engine off. Then w/wheels on ground, turn on engine, run for 2 minutes and turn lock-to-lock. If it sounds OK and level's up - then you're good to go.

PONTIACDRIVER1993

WAIT!!!!!!!!!!!!! I KNOW EXACTLY WHAT IT IS IT IS JUST THE POWER STEERING BELT THATS ALL!!!!!

achievasc92

you have air in the sytem, bleed it by taking the reservoir cap off and turning the steering wheel to lock back and forth for a few minutes, should quiet right down

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wesw02

just to let u know the same happened to mine and my pump went, then it caused my Rack & Pinoin to sheer so make sure it gets taken care of (wouldn't want any thing bad to happen to a grand am)