How to Find a Leak in the Power Steering System of Dodge Caravan 2002

The 2002 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine in the base model. A 3.3-liter flex-fuel engine was available as an option for the 2002 Caravan. The power steering fluid system utilizes the power steering pump along with the pressure and return line, as well as the rack and pinion. A leak in the power steering system can cause the power steering pump to whine, as air is introduced to the fluid system. The fluid helps lubricate the power steering pump, so too little fluid can break the pump or the rack and pinion.

Instructions

1

Raise the hood on the Caravan and set the hood prop. Open the power steering fluid reservoir and fill the reservoir if needed. Install the cap and lock it when you are done adding fluid.

2

Raise the front of the Caravan with a jack. Place jack stands beneath the front subframe rails, just inward from the lower control arms. Do not place the stands beneath the lower control arms. Lower the Caravan onto the jack stands.

3

Lie beneath the front bumper of the Caravan and slide into position to inspect the power steering assembly. Use a flashlight to see beneath the vehicle and inspect the power steering pump, the power steering lines, and the power steering rack and pinion for any signs of a leak.

4

Ask an assistant to start the Caravan and slightly turn the wheel right and left. Inspect the power steering system from the pump on the side of the engine, all the way down to the steering rack and pinion. A power steering leak can be as small as a pin head, so pay close attention to any fluids escaping the lines, pump or rack. If you do not locate the leak this way, proceed to the next step.

5

Ask your assistant to turn the steering wheel completely to the right or left until the wheel stops, then to apply slight pressure to the wheel. Turning the wheel to the stopping point and adding pressure to the wheel increase the pressure in the power steering assembly, forcing any leak to reveal itself. Locate the source of the power steering fluid leak, then ask your assistant to shut off the Caravan.