98 Steering locks up when braking

[cozmo43]

When I get off the interstate my ramp makes a long sweeping left. Well when I brake and turn to the left. If I come to a stop the power steering seems to lock up. I dont care how much you turn the steering wheel. It will not turn, but if I let off the brake and give it some gas as if im taking off it will let go and I can steer fine. I dont know?

[shorod]

Welcome to the forum!

When sitting at a stop with your foot on the brake, what is the engine speed and is the engine idle smooth? If you have a vacuum leak the engine will likely idle rough. The brake power assist is via vacuum, so if the brake booster is leaking it could be dragging the engine down and therefore the power steering pump is spinning slowly and not providing the normal amount of assist. Also, the Idle Air Control (IAC) may be malfunctioning and not allowing the engine to idle at the correct speed, causing a low idle speed and slow power steering pump.

Some 1998 Taurus cars have Variable Assist Power Steering (VAPS) which uses electric assist along with the hydraulic power steering. If your car has VAPS that might have become unplugged as well causing reduced assist.

If you shift to park or neutral while at the stop can you then turn the steering? How about if you put the car in park and release the brake?

-Rod