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2003 Nissan Maxima

Question: power steering fluid MIA

Question

ksmomma05, Grand Saline, TX, October 05, 2009, 21:13
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 Rookie

I heard my power steering creaking at me so I checked the fluid level. It was low so I filled it up to the max level and about 3 weeks later it's low like I never put any in it. It's not on the ground and the engine isn't wet inside anywhere. So where is it going and what needs to be fixed! Help anyone got an idea?

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  • Answer #1

    patrick mannion from Greg Solow's Engine Room, October 05, 2009, 21:35
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     Master

    The power steering system is supposed to be a sealed system and not loose or "burn" fluid. The system only consists of a pump, steering rack and power steering high pressure hose and return hose. It doesn't make sense that the fluid just disappear. If it were a serious high pressure leak the fluid would leak out very quickly as the pressure is very high. Check the end of the steering rack are the rack boots wet and or torn? If so it may be an internal rack problem. Check the pinion seal where the steering column enters the steering rack see if it is leaking. Take a close look at the steering pump area, you may need a mirror and flash light to pinpoint the source of the leak. The high pressure hose has metal and rubber hose. The hose should be dry and not damp. Get someone to operate the steering from side to side as you look for a leak from the hoses.

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  • Medium-star Best Answer
    Visitor, March 07, 2010, 20:59

    I have the same car same year and everything with the same problem, after inspecting I found it was my high pressure power steering hose was leaking.

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