What Is the Growling Noise When I Turn the Steering Wheel?

Several things can cause or contribute to noise in the power steering pump when the steering wheel is turned. If the fluid level is too low in the power steering pump reservoir, the pump will make noise until the fluid level is corrected. Air in the system caused by improper fluid level, contaminated fluid, pinched hoses, binding in the suspension, a loose belt or a bad power steering pump can also cause an abnormal growling or screeching sound..

Some Ford power steering pumps exhibit a low pitch growl or buzzing noise when the wheel is turned. Ford uses more plastic casting parts that contribute to the noise. Follow the checklist for all pumps, and once completed, if the pump still makes noise replace the pump.

Inspecting the Power Steering Pump

Check the drive belt and make sure that the tensioner is free moving and applying the proper tension to ensure the belt is not slipping. Look at the power steering hose connections and the hoses themselves for indication of leaks. A pump with a leaky hose will not purge air trapped in the power steering system. Replace any leaky hoses and fill the power steering pump reservoir to the full mark.

Inspecting the Power Steering Fluid

Power steering fluid that has been contaminated with moisture, reducing its lubricating properties, will have a brownish appearance. This will cause the pump to make noise. The reservoir should be emptied halfway with a siphon and fresh power steering fluid added until the fluid is clear. When the fluid is beginning to clear, leave enough room in the reservoir to add a pint of power steering conditioner.

Inspecting the Pump Front Seal and Pulley Offset

Look at the front seal on the input shaft between the pulley and pump. If the seal is leaking the front bearing is worn, causing noise. This situation requires replacement of the pump. Look closely at the distance of the pulley from the pump housing. The outside of the pulley nose must be flush with the input shaft end. If the pulley is installed too far it will contact the pump housing. Metal shavings will be visible indicating the pulley is rubbing on the housing. To correct this problem, the pulley must be moved forward far enough to clear the housing and align with the other pulleys, using a power steering pump pulley remover .

Pressure Relief Valve

Many times the pressure relief valve used to prevent excessive pressure in the high-pressure hose can also cause a noisy pump. One of two problems may be present. Either the valve is stuck due to debris under the valves seat or the spring has weakened. Changing the fluid and adding a conditioner will normally reduce or eliminate the noise. A weak spring in the valve requires replacing the pump.

When installing a new pump, lift the front tires off the ground. Fill the pump reservoir with power steering fluid and start the engine. Rotate the steering wheel from side to side with care not to apply force against the steering stop. Pressure against the stop will harm the pump. A good pump will purge itself of air in two or three turns. Top off the power steering reservoir but do not overfill it.