Why is my power steering tight?

Question

I have a 99 Ford taurus with one previous owner. Everything is fully functional and seems to show no signs of damage or decay. The only issue I am having is with the power steering. My mom has a mercury sable which is essentially the same car and I can turn her steering wheel with one finger. Mine feels rather tight. I can turn it with a little bit of effort, but I don't think that it is quite at the level of no power steering at all. There are no leaks and the fluid seems to be at a good level. I don't know if it helps or not, but when you turn and begin to move forward you can usually release the wheel and let it spin naturally between your fingers. This one barely does that. I am not very good with cars, so I just want to hear suggestions. Any clue what to do?

? · Accepted Answer

either a worn pump or low  power steering fluid are the   more common  problems. hopefully just low level as that is easy and cheap to fix. a new pump will cost  quite a bit more. 
  make sure belt is  not slipping either?
 if unsure about checking have a friend  with some working knowledge of a car have a peek. possible a Friend at work?

? · Answer

Sounds to me like the pump is bad. With the engine running open the reservoir cap and you should see fluid movement in the reservoir.

Anonymous · Answer

With the engine working and the automobile in park, have somebody turn the wheel from finished left to finished suitable at the same time as you're listening below the hood. in case you hear the noise comming from the powersteering pump(around the belts) its maximum probably a foul pump. replace your question in accordance with that information.

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Why is my power steering tight?

3 Answers