Power Steering Failure (sometimes)

joeclorite · Post by **joeclorite** » 18 Mar 2011, 14:22

I have a 2003 S80 T6 (which I love) with 186k miles. I am having a problem with my power steering that has been going on for a few months now. It started out being difficult to turn sometimes and it is now difficult to turn all the time.
It steers fine with no noise from the pump (reservoir is still full). There is no binding or any other sign of a problem except that it feels like I am turning a 1948 Ford. Oh, every once in a while it starts working perfectly again for a minute or two.

Any ideas?

Thanks,
Joe Clorite

peetek · Post by **peetek** » 19 Apr 2011, 11:41

I have 180k on mine and just started having the same problem with no whining noise or leaking. Please let me know if you come up with anything

Peete

Post by **Jack Rock** » 19 Apr 2011, 15:33

Try replacing the oil. I had similar problems and had to use the turkey baster method twice, one week apart, to get all the old, dirty brown stuff out. Just search turkey baster, it could be a cheap fix. I also had zero noise or level problems, just randomly stiff.

peetek · Post by **peetek** » 19 Apr 2011, 15:38

will it work? did you have the same issue? can i just use dextron ATF synthetic? Mine is now stiff all the time. Thanks

Post by **Jack Rock** » 19 Apr 2011, 17:35

For the cost of a litre or two of *insert fluid for s80 here*, it's worth a try. Check your manual for your fluid type or search around this site.