Car: 2006 Evo MR (w/ 5 speed swap)
Mileage: 45K

This has been happening for a while, but it seems to be getting louder and am now wondering if it's normal. When I am backing into my driveway (narrow street) the car will hiss loudly from the wheel well when the steering wheel is almost completely turned. As I turn to the center it goes away.

I'm not sure if this is an ACD issue or a steering pump issue or if it's just normal evo random noises. I did search, but didn't find anyone else with the same problem.

Would appreciate some insight. Thanks!


-Ken

 

Are you leaking any fluids? Check your power steering reservoir. Does it sound like a pump kinda hissing noise? Is it by the timing belt side or drivers side wheel well?

 

Not leaking any fluids and it sounds to me like it's from the driver wheel well, but not sure if that's just because my window is open on that side listening for it.

 

Power steering systems should never be held at the lock. The noise you're hearing is the pump attempting to do what it cannot, hydraulically assist your steering. At the lock, there's no place for it to go.

It's bad for the pump, and generally bad for the system. If it's getting louder, it could be your pump experiencing more wear.

My advice for you, and everyone... don't hold your wheel AT full lock. (That can be defined by basically any odd noise you hear). Those extra 2 degrees of wheel angle aren't going to help you... make an extra point in your turn.

 

Ughhh...makes sense. Unfortunately, the steering radius on these cars is so effing horrible haha.

 

I'd say check the fluid level too. Could be too low and your asking to much from the pump.

 

That is some good information. Seems like common sense but I didn't know this about the PS system.