dman19

When first turning sharply, '95 Corolla, high pitched squeal --- particularly when first driving car, and particularly when it is cold outside -- near or below freezing. Only have 42,000 miles on this vehicle...is this a power steering issue???

Thanks,
Dave

SpinnerCee

Im only guessing, but when the PS fluid is cold and you turn full lock just after a cold start, the fluid may not have enough pressure built up -- the noise may be the pump straining to pressurize the system with the cold fluid -- be careful here, this could cause the pump gears to wear prematurely, allowing the pump to "get going" may help, and keeping away from turning to full lock may also save you in the long run. A check of the fluid level won't hurt either.

The serpentine accessory belt may also slip some when it's really cold since the belt rubber will become a bit harder as it gets older and colder -- The pulleys are also more efficient and "quieter" when they are warm.

Also -- Corollas have very little inside tire clearance between the tire's upper inner edge and the strut tower, front and rear (205s are a tight fit) -- when cold, the tire pressure is lower, and the sidewall may flex and bulge more than when warmed up -- in sharp turning the tire may actually touch the strut tower (check under the spring pad and look for "rub" marks on the strut) -- also the tires may be cold enough to actuially skid (scrub), either the inner or outer tire because the alignment geometry is not typically optimized for full lock turns.

dman19

Thanks Spinner, I have noticed that once the car is warmed up, there is no more noise. Maybe just need to let the car warm up first before driving?

ttiiggy

Sounds to me like you need to tighten the belt that drives the power steering pump. At this point after it has been slipping, it may need to be replaced.

dman19

Thanks Ttiigy, will check that, once it warms up.....back into the 30s again....