Power steering diagnosing

ROB 1503

MEMBER
2006 LINCOLN ZEPHYR
3.0L
V6
2WD
AUTOMATIC
210,000 MILES

Hi. Last night when I was about 2 blocks away from home I noticed my steering wheel getting hard. When I got home and turned off my car I saw a puddle of oil. Right away I imaged it was power steering fluid. Opened the hood and checked fluid container and was empty. From the top of the engine there wasn't any signs of oil being splattered. I haven't had a chance to check bottom since I don't have a jack on me to lift it the oem jack bent on me the last time I used it. So I was wondering if it failed on me was it because the pump went out or would it be the rack and pinion? How would I be able to find which if the 2 are the cause. Also, if I could get information on how to remove and replace them please.

Thank you

6 Replies

KASEKENNY

MECHANIC
18,907 POSTS

Hi,

More than likely the steering got hard if there was low or no fluid in the pump. As for where the leak is coming from, clearly we will need to fill the reservoir and then operate the power steering while someone is looking for where the fluid is coming from. It could be the pump or rack, but it could also just be a line or fitting. Clearly the only way to know is to look for it.

However, don't replace any parts until you find it and also don't put the pump or rack in it until you fix the leak and fill the system and remove the air from the system.

Let me know if you have questions. Thanks

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Monday, October 28th, 2019 AT 4:46 PM

ROB 1503

MEMBER
63 POSTS

You are right. I'm going to clean up surrounding area that has power steering fluid and fill up system. Then look for leaks. Thank you very much. I'll keep you updated.

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Monday, October 28th, 2019 AT 5:11 PM

KASEKENNY

MECHANIC
18,907 POSTS

Sounds great. Please do keep us updated with what you find. Thanks

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Monday, October 28th, 2019 AT 8:17 PM

ROB 1503

MEMBER
63 POSTS

I sure will and thank you for your time and generous help.

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Monday, October 28th, 2019 AT 8:58 PM

ROB 1503

MEMBER
63 POSTS

Okay, so I finally had time to clean up the area with steering fluid. Poured new fluid, turned car on and as soon as I went down to look for any leakage I saw it. Turns out it was the pressure switch. It was leaking massively through the harness connection. Now before I go and purchase a new one. I have a curious question. Can there be any type of damage to the steering assembly or engine if I just plug it up with a bolt and not a pressure switch, besides having the the engines revs go down a little when turning the wheels at or near engine idle?