MSK

Some strange thing is happening to my car. First I saw coolent on the power steering pump and since this evening, after driving for about 15 miles, I noticed oil seepage on the power steering pump. I do not know what is going on. Is it time for a new pump. Can this be repaired? Where can I buy a new one. I did not see any decrease in fluid level in the power steering reservoir. please help.

Thanks
MSK 1990 SE

DavidMaxum

Hey,MSK

Our maximas have been plagued with these issues for some time now. I have had three max's and all of them have had ps problems. You probably did not notice the level change in the reservoir because the little basket style filter screen will make it appear that it is full. Yours may look like oil but that is because it is dirty it should have somewhat of a red color when new but newer ps fluid has been colored blue to make people buy it instead of Dextron Mercon transmission fluid which is the same and cheaper. You should first probably replace the pressure side hose. This one is the most likely to fail and it has the metal shaft style fittings that can be difficult to break loose. The bottom of the hose is at the pump and can be quite difficult to access also. Good luck hope it helps. The hose should be around $30-40 and can be ordered/purchased at most local auto stores. Email me with any questions.

MSK

David: Thanks for your response. Let me tell you it is one confusing situation. Two days ago I saw the coolent (dark green color) again. When I drive the car more than 30 or so miles then it evaporates and looks like oil on touch. I took it in to a local mechanic this morning and see what he comes up with. I looks like the water pump leaking and throwing coolent through the timing belt cover on top of the PSP.

I will update you with what the mechanic will say.

Thanks again

MSK

MaximaBella

you prolly just need to replace an old brittle ps hose, pretty cheap the whole thing cost me like 60 bux. If you have someone sit in the driver seat and turn the steering wheel hard back and forth, you will probably see fluid leaking out invisible holes all over the hose!

Jon91SE

I had a similar problem and it was not the pump at all it was the high pressure hose. i had all the leaks but figured out it was not the pump just the hose, it can be expensive for the hose though close to $130