The_Evil_One

Today the power steering went out on my 2009 F150. I'm at 70490 miles.

Apparently this is a known issue but I need a response quickly to know exactly what's wrong before I start dropping money to possibly fix something that may not be needed.

I've heard it could be anything from joints to hoses. The pump does not whine when trying to turn but it takes a significant amount of force to muscle the wheel to get it to turn especially towards the right.

If I've been sitting for a moment it gets worse to the point where the wheel feels like it's almost locked up.

When I get around 30 - 35 mph the steering is still heavier than it should be but I can steer. Obviously I need to get this fixed as it could cause an accident and I'd like to hear from others who've had this issue on what the fix was for them before I take it in so I know how much I'm going to be spending.

Spazmonkey05

Stupid question is there fluid? The lower power steering hose is known to leak. And if there is fluid with the truck in Park Rev the engine and try and steer. If it gets easier it most likely a pump. Also grab a flash light and look in the power steering reservoir and if it shines like a Christmas Tree something let go and you will most likely need to replace the pump and flush the system. If you have any questions please ask!

-Ricky

The_Evil_One

Already checked fluid. The tank is still full from when I refilled it after changing out my pads and rotors. The fluid is new fluid. I bled the brake lines during the rotor and pad change.

It only get's easier above 3,000 - 3,500 RPM.

I got a feeling it's the steering shaft U joint(s).

The motor does not whine when trying to steer.

saserby

You said your power steering is out, but you're talking about brake fluid?

cyberdude47

I just had my steering rack changed. They are known for the internal gears breaking and causing the rack to bind

The_Evil_One

Runs off the same tank correct? My understanding comes from military humvee's where it does.

The fluid is not out going by that tank.

saserby

No, power steering fluid has it's own tank.

The_Evil_One

You're right. I went and found it. Tank is a little below minimum enough to the point where I can notice it by eye. Secondly the fluid is black with particles floating around in it so I'll try flushing the system and putting new fluid in to see if that helps.

Spazmonkey05

Sounds like the pump is weak. They don't need to make whine to be weak.

But I would check the lower steering shaft before replacing the pump if you have a frozen joint that can cause high steering effort

The_Evil_One

Put new fluid in and put it back at the proper level. Didn't work. Now to check the U joints and then the pump.