Power Steering fluid

[98 Jeep]

I've noticed over the past few weeks that the steering on this Jeep has become increasingly hard. Decided to check the fluid level. It was empty. Refilled it and it felt great, but within a week to 10 days time it has all drained out again. I'm afraid to ask what your thoughts are on what could be wrong. Pump, hose or something else. I really can't afford much more in the way of repairs on this thing. It still needs a 2nd o2 censor. Any thoughts?

 

[SteelHeadz]

The first thing you need to figure out is where the fluid is leaking.The power steering system is a self contained hydraulic sytem. If the reservoir gets extremely low on fluid, this would indicate that there is a leak somewhere and would determine what and how much it would take to repair it. As you mentioned, the power steering pressure line,return line, pump or steering gear would be the components to check for leaks.

 

[98 Jeep]

Just got a call from the mechanic, it was the power steering pump, $82.00 for that, $60.00/hr labor and fluid. I was thinking it was going to be much more.
Next job is the other o2 censor.

 

[SteelHeadz]

The O2 sensors are not that difficult to change out if your willing to get a little dirty. The only tool you'll need is a 22mm open end wrench or a 22mm O2 sensor socket. Which one are you replacing?

 

[98 Jeep]

The O2 sensors are not that difficult to change out if your willing to get a little dirty. The only tool you'll need is a 22mm open end wrench or a 22mm O2 sensor socket. Which one are you replacing?

I have no idea which one was replaced. I am by no means mechanically inclined but thanks for the tip. That and a new horn will be the next repair if something else doesn't get me in the meantime. The horn on that thing sounds like a kids bike. Thanks much

 

[TypeZXRs]

Replace the o2 sensor before the cat.

 

[trailrunner87]

To tag onto this discussion, does anyone know if the power steering fluid levels are the reason a Jeep Liberty Sport would make a loud noise upon startup in colder weather? A friend told me that this was the problem when my car started up and had to warm up before the noise went away. I don't want the wheel to lock up.

Thanks!

 

[SteelHeadz]

To tag onto this discussion, does anyone know if the power steering fluid levels are the reason a Jeep Liberty Sport would make a loud noise upon startup in colder weather? A friend told me that this was the problem when my car started up and had to warm up before the noise went away. I don't want the wheel to lock up.

Thanks!

At first start up especially on cold temperatures, it's normal. One thing to check after start up, kill the ignition after a few seconds and then check the fluid for any aeration, this would NOT be normal and would need some diagnosis. Other than that, after a few minutes from the first start up, the whinning noise should go away. If it's excessively loud then, it might need to be checked by a qualified tech. to see if there's any restrictions or component failure.

 

[trailrunner87]

Thank you - appreciate the advice.

 

[54cj3b]

does it sound like a diesel at start up thats the rockers
the wifes does it too its normal till oil works its way up to them

 

[trailrunner87]

No, not really. But I'll take a look at the rockers when I check it this weekend. Thanks for the tip!

 

[54cj3b]

If power steering fluids low that can whine also at start up but also during driving