Stiffness and noise in power steering

[UltraSmooth]

My 2000 Malibu has stiffness in the steering and also a noise when turning. It's not really a squealing noise, it's more like the noise you get when wiping a window...if that makes any sense.

I have noticed stiffness in the steering for over a year now. It hasn't really gotten anyworse. I'm putting in in the shop next week to have it looked at, just wondering if anyone has any thoughts on it so I'll know what to expect. Power steering belt maybe? I've checked the fluid and it is not low, maybe a flush?

I asked one mechanic and he recommended using some Power Steering Lucas or something?

thanks,
rob