How to Tell If Power Steering Pump Is Bad: 5 Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
If your steering wheel has started feeling stiff or you hear strange noises when turning, your power steering system could be trying to tell you something — and it might be time to check the pump. One of the most common questions we hear from drivers is: how to tell if the power steering pump is bad?
At Guzman Automotive in Taylor, TX, we’ve diagnosed and repaired hundreds of power steering issues. In this blog, we’ll break down the most common signs of a failing power steering pump, explain what causes them, and help you decide what to do next if your vehicle is acting up.
What Does a Power Steering Pump Do?
The power steering pump is a hydraulic component that makes it easier for you to turn the steering wheel. It pumps power steering fluid under pressure to the steering gear, allowing smooth and responsive steering with minimal effort, especially at low speeds.
When the pump starts to fail, you may feel resistance in the wheel, hear strange noises, or even notice fluid leaks. Ignoring these signs could lead to a complete loss of power assist, making your vehicle much harder (and less safe) to drive.
How to Tell If Power Steering Pump Is Bad: Top 5 Warning Signs
If you’re wondering how to tell if the power steering pump is bad, these are the five most common symptoms we see at the shop:
1. Whining or Groaning Noises When Turning the Wheel
One of the first indicators of a bad power steering pump is a loud whining or groaning sound when you turn the steering wheel. You might hear it:
While turning at low speeds
When backing out of a parking space
Immediately after starting the car on a cold day
What it means:
A whining noise usually indicates that the pump is struggling to circulate fluid. It could be caused by:
Low power steering fluid
Air in the system
Internal pump wear
Pro tip: Don’t just top off the fluid and hope for the best. A faulty pump can quickly destroy itself if left unchecked.
2. Stiff or Slow Steering Response
If your steering wheel feels harder to turn than usual — especially at low speeds — it’s a major red flag. You might feel like you're wrestling with the wheel just to make a turn.
What it means:
This usually means the pump isn’t generating enough hydraulic pressure to assist your steering. It could be caused by:
A worn or failing pump
A slipping drive belt
Contaminated or low fluid
If your steering becomes inconsistent (sometimes loose, sometimes tight), the pump is likely nearing the end of its life.
3. Power Steering Fluid Leaks
Look under your vehicle after it’s been parked — do you see red or amber-colored fluid near the front of the engine bay? That could be power steering fluid.
What it means:
Leaks often occur at the pump, hoses, or connections. If your fluid level drops too low, it can cause permanent damage to the pump. And if you're topping off fluid regularly, the system likely has a leak.
You can usually spot a failing pump leak by checking:
The pump housing
Hose clamps and seals
Around the power steering reservoir
4. Squealing Noises on Startup
A high-pitched squeal when you start the car — especially when it’s cold — could be related to the power steering system.
What it means:
This may indicate the power steering pump drive belt is loose, glazed, or slipping. While this could also indicate a worn belt or tensioner, it often appears alongside pump issues.
If the squealing sound goes away after a few minutes but returns every morning, have it checked before the belt snaps or the pump seizes.
5. Steering Wheel Vibration or Jerky Movement
If your steering wheel vibrates, pulsates, or feels jerky when you turn — even slightly — there may be a problem with consistent fluid delivery.
What it means:
This could be caused by a failing power steering pump that intermittently loses pressure. In some cases, internal damage to the pump’s vanes or rotors is to blame.
If the vibration worsens the longer you drive, or if it occurs at idle, it’s time to have your vehicle inspected.
What Causes a Power Steering Pump to Go Bad?
The power steering pump is a mechanical part, and like any moving component, it wears out over time. Here are some common causes of pump failure:
Low or dirty power steering fluid – Causes overheating and internal wear
Leaks – Starve the pump of lubrication and pressure
Worn bearings or seals – Lead to noise, vibration, or fluid loss
Belt issues – Reduce pump speed and pressure output
Contaminants in the system – Can clog passages and damage pump internals
Most power steering pumps last between 80,000 to 150,000 miles. But if your vehicle has been running low on fluid, or if it hasn’t had regular maintenance, failure can happen much sooner.
Can I Keep Driving with a Bad Power Steering Pump?
Technically, yes — but you shouldn’t. A failing pump might not stop your car from moving, but it will make steering harder and more unpredictable, especially at low speeds or when parking. It can also:
Damage to the steering rack
Cause the pump to seize and break the belt
Leads to a sudden loss of power assist
If you're wondering how to determine if the power steering pump is faulty, you're already experiencing symptoms. Don’t wait for it to get worse, especially if your steering is getting harder or noisier by the day.
How We Diagnose Power Steering Pump Issues at Guzman Automotive
When you bring your vehicle to Guzman Automotive in Taylor, TX, we’ll start with a full inspection of your power steering system. That includes:
Checking fluid level and condition
Inspecting the pump, hoses, and reservoir for leaks
Listening for abnormal noises
Checking belt condition and tension
Performing a pressure test, if needed
We’ll explain exactly what we find and give you honest recommendations — whether it’s a fluid flush, a new pump, or a simple belt replacement.
Don’t Ignore the Signs — Let’s Fix It Right
At Guzman Automotive, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing steering problems quickly and accurately. If you’re noticing any of the symptoms mentioned above, give us a call. We’ll help you get back to smooth, reliable steering — without guesswork or unnecessary repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How much does it cost to replace a power steering pump?
A: It varies based on your vehicle. We'll provide an estimate after the inspection.
Q: Can I just add fluid to fix the problem?
A: If you're low on fluid, adding it may provide temporary relief. But if the fluid keeps dropping, or if you're hearing noises, the pump may already be damaged.
Q: How long does it take to replace a power steering pump?
A: Most replacements take about 2 to 3 hours, depending on the vehicle.
Q: What color is the power steering fluid?
A: Power steering fluid is typically red or amber. If it's dark or contains particles, it may need to be flushed or replaced.
Q: What happens if I ignore a bad power steering pump?
A: You risk total power steering loss, pump failure, or damage to other steering components — all of which can be dangerous and more expensive to fix.