Whining when wheels are turned?

[supersnake83]

Hi everyone,

I have been noticing that when the car is in cold whether (even after car is warmed up) that I hear a whining sound when the wheels are turned. I also hear the noise if I am in park and I turn the steering wheel.

Here is a sample of when I hear the noise:

I am driving and come to an intersection where I need to make a turn, and when I turn the steering wheel, I hear this whining noise. I can hear it no matter what direction I am turning.

Any thoughts as to what this problem could be?

Thanks,

Geoff.

[Ebbtide]

Sounds like it may be the power steering pump. Check the fluid and look for leaks.

[driverdriver]

I concur with Ebbtide. Check for low fluid and or leaks.

[supersnake83]

Thanks for the reply. My power steering fluid was low. Now my question is how?

I can understand that my car is 16 years old, but what could make the fluid leak although there are no leaking signs?

Where could the leak be coming from and is there a way to fix it?

Thanks,

Geoffrey.

[driverdriver]

Condensation happens to power steering fluid. meaning water will get in and mix with power steering fluid evaporating when the under hood temperature is hot. Power steering fluid does break down over time. If you can't find a power steering fluid leak, that's what it likely is.