Power Steering noises

[intrigued00]

Quick Question: Since it has gotten colder outside, usually below 32 degrees, my powersteering has been making a grinding or rubbing noise only when i turn it to the left. It is also only when pulling into a parking spot or turning when i am going slower. While driving normal and making a left turn i don't hear any noise. Do you think this is the dreaded rack problem. I have a 2000 and dealer told me this problem was fixed in 99 so i should be good. The steering never tightens up or anything and like i said it seems to only do it when it is cold outside, almost sounds like it is in the steering column, thanks for the info and advise

[Burnout524]

It may either be the bearings or the CV joints. This sounds a lot like the problem we had with our '87 Camry. I think the mechanic said something like there is water or road gunk getting into the front axle and when you take the corner, thats what's causing the sound.

I forget exactly since it was a while back and I can't fill you in on how any repairs went because we decided to live with it and we traded it in soon after.

[Laser17]

Its been a steady 15 degrees outside here, and every morning if i haven't warmed up the car when i got to back out of the driveway i notice the steering wheel is a little tight, be it loosens up in a few seconds, i have a 98, i have no idea whether or not the racket problem was fixed by the previous owners or not, but he steering control and the handling is fine

[canatto]

Well I don't have that problem with my 2000 Stering Edition though it's been -10F in the morning lately here in Canada, I'd take a look at the power steering fluid and see if it's clean and top it up to the correct level if needed. I'd say I will first check the fluid whenever any hydraulic system presents a condition that's low temperature related, and go from there. Because fluids tend to change their physical properties over temperatures, like viscosity and "pumpability". Plus, checking and topping up are easy.

[Jawsolife]

Let's not forget the "snow snot" factor.

If you have been driving in any snow, it will build up on the underside of the front-end of the car as well as in the wheel wells.

This can also cause noises like this to occur.