2003 V70 Power Steering Pump Leak

[robp66216]

Power steering pump is leaking a bit on 2003 2.4L non-turbo. Appears to have just started as when I had the timing belt replaced at 210,000 about 2 months ago there was no evidence of a leak. Not leaking on the ground at this point and no squeaking. Independent shop that did the belt wants to replace it telling me it can leak behind the cover, ultimately saturating the timing belt and causing it to miss timing and all the bad results of that. Talked to service guy at Volvo dealer who I have taken it to for years and he says he would not be worried about it dripping behind the cover. Says until it gets worse to just let it go. He recognizes it's an older car with a lot of miles on it. Had a rear knuckle break when the parking shoe separated so already looking at a big bill just to get that fixed so the car can be driven.

Thoughts on if this issue with power steering fluid leaking is legitimate or not and if I should fix this now, or wait until it starts to leak to where it is noticeable. Suggestion on a good aftermarket pump as the Volvo pump is pretty pricey.

Thanks!

[vtl]

A1 Cardone remanufactures them. Or get a used pump from lower mileage car.

I bit the bullet and bought a new ZF pump fitted for my model year and chassis number, which turned to be the most expensive pump Volvo put in this car. To relief the pain I spent another $1800 for suspension parts, so I'd get $200 off and $380 pump would become a $180 pump

My old pump had a relatively significant leak for 3 years, I even had to top up steering fluid every year or so. When I took it off, the pump had a sign of failing bearing.

[oragex]

Surprising the mechanic said it might leak on the timing belt. The pump is not near the timing belt cover. Maybe the mechanic said it might leak on the serpentine belt instead?

I had a leaking pump for a while and it didn't got worst. I'd say as long as it doesn't leak so much as to wet the serpentine belt, leave it alone. But if you decide to replace it anyway, don't throw the old pump away. There is a chance a refurbished or even a non-leaking used one to not have the right pressure which will affect the steering feel.

[robp66216]

Thanks. No, he said it would leak behind the cover. I specifically asked if he meant the serpentine belt and he said no. Clearly that's right there where the pump is.