1996 Lexus ES 300 power steering leak

Tiny
TENNIS333
  • MEMBER
  • 1996 LEXUS ES 300
  • 6 CYL
  • FWD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 148,000 MILES
Hi guys,

I slowly noticed a small spot on my driveway that I guess has been slowly enlarging to about 4" in diameter over the last 3 months. I bought the car 3 months ago (Oct 20, 2008).

The power steering fluid resivoir is down about 1/8th of an inch.

I felt slightly reddish substance on the driveway and decided the small leak was directly underneath the power steering fluid resivoir on the undercarriage and driveway.

I want to use a "Stop Leak" power steering fluid product, but read that the seals expand when you use it, and that's how it stops (or slows) the leak.

Will I "really" hurt my car if I use this kind of product?

I'm on disability and can't afford a serious ($) repair.

Thanks for your help!


http://www.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/305519_driveway_spot_2.jpg

Wednesday, January 21st, 2009 AT 11:26 AM

3 Replies

Tiny
2CARPRO JACK
  • MECHANIC
  • 11,533 POSTS
I understand your situation, but I dont suggest using stop leak products. If it is on the resevoir, which is the low pressure side, check the clamps fo the hoses, you may be able to repair it with a simple clamp. Anything that chnages the integrity of the seals will eventually effect performance
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Wednesday, January 21st, 2009 AT 12:40 PM
Tiny
TZCHRIS
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Had the same problem on my 98 ES300. It turned out to be a leaky/rusted line. Started out as a small leak front pass side and eventually was leaking about a quart every 200 miles. Had to remove the steel guard/plate under the front to find it but it was the low pressure return line rusted right thru. Beats the $430 for a rebuilt rack or $300 for a new pump (parts only no labor) cost me $5 in rubber hose and 2 clamps, cut out the rusted section with dremmil and spliced in new hose.

They wanted $100 for the OEM part.

Good luck!
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Wednesday, February 18th, 2009 AT 4:57 PM
Tiny
MYLEXUS
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Just some additional information about power steering hose leaks.

I have a slight leak with my 1996 ES 300 and the dealer said it was really not a problem yet.

The estimate to fix the hose was $500 at portland lexus.
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Wednesday, April 8th, 2009 AT 7:32 PM

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