Steering noise

[agarcia]

I have a '03 Windstar. There is a noise coming from the power steering. The annoying sound that it makes when it needs fluid, but it doesn't. I checked the fluid and it is at the level it should be. The steering wheel is still soft when I turn. I don't know what the problem could be. Anyone ever have this same problem? I would really appreciate any replies. Thanks.

[kahjdh]

i have a 99 and with most fords they have a loud power steering pump. when i gets louder thats when you need to check the pump out. i had to replace mine twice.

[Wa jang chang]

My 00 SEL made a loud noise when steered suddenly. The noise pretty much has gone away when I replaced the fluid (Dexron III or Mercon). Try replacing the fluid.

Wajangchang

[wiswind]

One quick thing to try....is to make sure that the fluid is at the correct level.
Then, with the engine at idle....turn the wheels from limit to limit...without resting against the limit.
Do this a couple of times.....and then recheck the fluid level.
If there are any bubbles in the fluid......you may have to wait for them to rise out....and then do the process again.
This is the process to purge air from the steering system.

If that does not help, you may find some relief from changing the power steering fluid....use the correct fluid....

Those are the 2 cheapest and easiest things that come to mind.

Also, when steering in tight places....avoid holding the steering wheel all the way against the limits....as this places a lot of stress on the steering pump / rack.