Power Steering Problem.............

[CaelanT]

Seems like I may finally have found a great site for vehicles!

For about the past year I have had a noise relating to the steering on my stock 2003 ZX2.

This can only be described as a typical whine/groan "whaaaa" which is mildly audible when not moving, or driving straight. The noise is very loud as soon as I start to turn the steering wheel, especially when the car is stopped. This is definitely more noticeable on cold starts, and until the car warms up.

There are no fluid leaks, there is no play in the steering, and the actual power steering itself has not degraded, at least noticeably, in function. I have checked, along with a friend for any slipping belts, etc., but we could see nothing. With the hood up the sound is definitely emanating from the p/s pump area.

I have had it mentioned to me by a friend that there is a solenoid on the p/s pump which may be the culprit rather than the pump itself. Could this be the problem? Also, is it possible that maybe a tuning cable in the p/s hose assembly may be bad, loose, plugged...................?

I am about to put the car in to have the timing belt, etc. changed, but don't want to run into the usual problem of being told I need to replace things I don't, so some advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance!

[AltecZX2]

sounds to me the pump, but it could also be the, solenoid or a bent hose. If you are having the Timing belt changed I wold have them check it out as they will be by the pump anyways.