02 I35 steering issue

[mclasser]

Hi guys,

Today while leaving work, I had this weird issue with what seems like the power steering. I was backing out and when I turned the steering wheel, I heard a loud squeeling coming from the engine. It sounded like the timing chain was slipping off PS pump or something. It happened when I turned the wheel left and right. When the squeeling started, the steering wheel felt like it was fighting me and I felt this resistance from it to turn. The weather today is in the low- to mid-40s, so a tad chilly. As I drove around and the car warmed up, the squeeling seemed to go away. But when I turned the steering to the right fully, I heard this groan and felt shuddering coming from the front of the car. This only happens when the car is in drive and reverse. What could this issue be? Is the PS pump on its way out, or is this the dreaded high pressure PS hose problem that plagues the I35s? The fluid in the pump is not dirty looking, if that helps. The car is an 02 I35 with about 72k miles.

[loystock]

Is the P/S level correct? Check the P/S hoses. As for the groan when steering, check the steering bump stop cover. Look in the lower wheel area for what looks like a bolt sticking out. The plastic cup cover could have come off.