2003 Dodge Grand Caravan Steering Assist Loss

2003 DODGE CARAVAN
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FARB
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Dodge Grand Caravan 2003 w/45,000 miles 3.9 ltr engine. I think it's 3.9?? Definitely not a 3.3.

The power steering system sounds normal to begain wth but after a few minutes of driving, it makes a whirring sound and every now and then, the steering power assist fails. The engines does not die nor does anything else fail to work. It started right after the warrantee ran out (36k). The vehicle does not see much highway travel and the commute distance is less that 5 miles one-way. When on a road trip, the noise will go away at speed but returns after it has been shut off for a few minutes. Any suggestions would be appreciated!!
Jan 24, 2007 at 11:55 PM
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2CARPRO JACK
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Is the fluid level correct, no leaks? Sounds like the pump might be going out on you.Pumps usually only make noise if low on fluid or they are coming apart internally
Jul 20, 2018 at 8:47 AM
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FARB
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I meant to add that the fliud level is normal. I was wondering if moisture could possibly be the cause? If not, I'm guessing I should shotgun the P/S pump and see if that doesn't fix it. What bothers me more than anything is this is the first time that I've owned a car that the P/S pump has died. I guess no more American made cars for me...
Jul 20, 2018 at 8:47 AM
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MATHIASO
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checking system pressure can help you determine the cause of the problem.
Jul 20, 2018 at 8:47 AM
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FARB
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How do I do that and what equipment would I need?
Jul 20, 2018 at 8:47 AM
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2CARPRO JACK
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Just finished a p/s pump in a Toyota, so dont write off American cars just yet
Jul 20, 2018 at 8:47 AM
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MATHIASO
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A lack of power steering assist can be caused by problems in the pump or gear.
To do the pressure test
you must obtain manufacturer's specification for the vehicle, and a power steering gauge.
Install the gauge tool on the pressure side between the pump and the gear.Position the shutoff valve toward the power steering gear.Start the engine and record the presure in the straight- ahead position with the gauge valve open.
If the pressure reading is above specification, check for restricted hoses or a damage steering gear.
Next, turn the steering wheel full left or full right and hold the wheel against the stop for no more than five seconds.Record the maximum pressure attained and check factory specification.If the pressure is below specification, position the steering wheel in the straight-ahead position and slowly close the shutoff valve.If the pressure rises to proper specification with the shutoff valve closed, the pump is working correctly.Look for problems in the hoses or gear assembly.If the pressure does not rise with the shutoff valve close, the problem is in the pump.If the pressure is ok with the shutoff valve closed but fails to reach sufficient levels when the steering wheel is turned full left or full right, then the steering gear is faulty.
Jul 20, 2018 at 8:47 AM
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FARB
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Thanks for the info. I think I'll need to take it to a local mechanic for those tests...
Jul 20, 2018 at 8:47 AM
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MATHIASO
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you're welcome :)
Jul 20, 2018 at 8:47 AM

Suggested Repair

Fluid level is already normal, so have a shop pressure-test the power steering system with a gauge between the pump and gear. Compare readings with the valve open, at full lock, and with the shutoff valve closed to determine whether the pump, hoses, or steering gear is failing, then repair the failed component.

Conversation Summary

A 2003 Dodge Grand Caravan develops a whirring noise and intermittent loss of power steering assist after a few minutes of driving; the engine and other systems continue to work, and the fluid level is normal with no leaks noted. Experts said low fluid or an internally failing pump commonly causes pump noise, and that a pressure test can distinguish a bad pump from restricted hoses or a faulty steering gear. The owner planned to have a local mechanic perform the test.

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