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Clogged power steering cooler

4.8K views 10 replies 8 participants last post by  plplplpl  
#1 ·
Hello I have 2004 pilot with persistent whining power steering. No leaks change pump ,flush, bleed no luck. Question can the power steering oil cooler get clogged.
 
#2 ·
I suppose it could, but I have never heard of that happening. A whining power steering pump is usually caused by either air in the system, or a failing pump.

When was the last time you changed out the PS fluid? PS fluid will degrade over time causing damage to the pump over time. Did you ever let the PS fluid level get too low? Lack of fluid will also cause damage to the pump, even if you hear no immediate noise after filling it back up.

Keep in mind if this is the OE pump then it is 18 years old. It may just be wearing out.
 
#3 ·
I suppose it could, but I have never heard of that happening. A whining power steering pump is usually caused by either air in the system, or a failing pump.

When was the last time you changed out the PS fluid? PS fluid will degrade over time causing damage to the pump over time. Did you ever let the PS fluid level get too low? Lack of fluid will also cause damage to the pump, even if you hear no immediate noise after filling it back up.

Keep in mind if this is the OE pump then it is 18 years old. It may just be wearing out.
I changed the pump fluid and bleed the system many times no luck. No visible leaks
 
#8 ·
Question can the power steering oil cooler get clogged.
Possible but not likely as the PS cooler is a metal tube that runs in front of the condenser to help cool the PS fluid as it travels back to the pump. The metal tube probably has an inner diameter similar to the rubber hoses. Some replacement steering racks recommend the use of an inline filter. Your PS noise is probably due to aeration and replacing the two small inexpensive O-rings could solve your the problem.