Hey,

I have a 1996 Legacy Outback 2.2 5M and the Power steering is making a whisp/whirrl sound at idle when turning the wheel right or left. The sound gets softer as the car warms up. I believe the fluid level is okay but I have been told by a mechanic (not my usual subaru guy) that the fluid is dirty and needs to be changed; will a fluid change likely remedy this sound, or is it a more significant problem (ie the pump)? What should I expect to pay for a fluid change, or is it a DIY job after thanksgiving dinner?

Let me know

Cardy

If you have jack stands and a place to raise the front end safely, it's a DIY job. It would probably take me two hours, since I am quite meticulous - and there is always one bolt that won't come off without a fight.

 

There is supposed to be a noise at full steering lock to either side, as the pump recirculates the fluid. Noise at all speeds could mean that the drive belt has been tightended to much and the pump bearing is worn out.

 

You could start by just draining the reservoir and re-filling that with new fluid. Then swing the steering wheel from side to side to expel any air that might have gotten in. First with the engine off, the with the engine running.

 

That will take 15 minutes, and replace at least half of the fluid. If you do it again after circulating the fluid, you will have replaced 75% of the fluid. Hmm, I am gonna do it this way in future!

 

USMB, bringing you ideas as they are formed in peoples very minds!!

Whenever you replace the fluid in a power steering system, make sure to energize the system while the front end is still in the air, this will bleed out any air that might have gotten in the lines. By energized the system, I mean start the engine and turn the steering wheel from lock to lock (all the way one way, then all the way the other way) several times. Doing this while on the ground will not remove the air from the lines.

Take the belt off the ps pump and turn the pulley by hand. If it doesn't turn smoothly, it's possible there is some bearing damage and replacing the fluid may or may not prolong its life.

 

I had one that was making noise. I replaced the fluid, and was quiet for a little while, but started making noise again, so I just replaced it. It wouldn't turn freely at all. It was toast.

Easy to drain with a turkey baster. Then refill and cycle steering wheel back and forth a few times.