Steering problem

[Allyjeep]

I have a 06 subaru forester 2.5x and when I turn the steering at slow speed or when not moving I get a squeeling from the drive belt and a vibration through the steering wheel. The belt was just changed a year ago 

Edited January 15, 2021 by Allyjeep

[Mr B]

adjust drive belt tension and test .

[Jay762]

As above - belt would be the first place i would look, check your fluid levels whilst you are there as well

[Allyjeep]

I have sorted the squeeling by tightening the belt but I am still getting a bad vibration and juddering through the steering wheel when turning at slow speed. It's like something is sticking on. Only happens when turning. Anyone got an idea what is causing this? 

[Mr B]

possibly pump low efficiency at low speed (worn/failing pump which not too uncommon)
Check fluid level in pump, check for leaks and do general visual checks of steering and if see nothing you be wise take it to a decent mechanic under suspicion of pump or if you DIY type guy maybe changing pump yourself, don't leave it too long as total pump failure can cause more issues to whole system if metal debris passes into rack an lines .
If is the pump do not buy aftermarket, you better with oem subaru used of cheap pattern part new or recon .

[Allyjeep]

Thanks I have ordered a used pump from eBay and watched a couple of videos on YouTube. It looks like an easy fix is there anything I should watch out for when taking out the old pump or fitting the replacement? 

[Mr B]

Just be diligent and not hot headed, keep clean and all be good, top up with suitable atf and bleed system by turning lock to lock .
It is simple job, hopefully you get lucky on good used part and old pump is at fault .
Has original pump/vehicle done high miles ?

[Allyjeep]

I have been watching all the YouTube videos on changing the pump and it looks straightforward. If the old pump is the original then it has done just over 150k so it has done quite well 

[Jay762]

As above - take your time and keep it clean as much as possible - I use rubber gloves over the end of the hoses and zip tie them to stop ingress of dust etc. I also have some wire or string ready to suspend the hoses up out of the way to stop the fluid draining over the engine / floor.  

[Dr. Acula]

Is Subaru ATF ok for power steering? 

[Greenmamba]

Should be. What does it say on the reservoir cap?

[Mr B]

Dexron lll or subaru oem spec .

[Jay762]

I use the redline stuff - Dexron III compliant but lots of words about anti foaming and stuff 😁

 

https://www.opieoils.co.uk/p-1040-red-line-power-steering-fluid.aspx

 

[Dr. Acula]

Thank you guys.