My 2006 Buick LaCrosse is whining and I have added power steering fluid and it is still hard to turn to the right and is still whining. What could it be?

The most common source of the whine is the power steering pump is low on fluid or the pump is defective. Check the owner's manual for instructions on how to check the fluid in the pumps reservoir.

Hello takinitlite,

The power steering pump is on the right-side(passenger side)of the engine compartment between the engine and firewall.

See image below circled in red.



I hope this helps.

Regards,

Jerry

check the power steering fluid level.

Change the power steering pump if it bothers you a lot. Otherwise, if power steering performance is ok, and you only notice a whining noise, I wouldn't worry about it too much.

Yes, this is an indicator the pump is low on fluid or failing. Check your fluid level, if that is good then replace the pump.

Sounds like a combination of a power steering pump (whine) AND the CV axle (loud clunk noise). Check the fluid level in the power steering pump. The pump is located on the passenger's side towards the firewall. Kind of hard to get at but unscrew the cover and there is a small/short dipstick there. See what it reads. Add Power Steering fluid (NOT transmission fluid, as needed. Don't overfill)
I'd get the "thumping noise" taken care of IMMEDIATELY. Could be a serious problem. Qualified front end shop should be able to diagnose and give you an estimate of cost. Last time I had one done it was about $300 parts and labor...

Whine usually occurs on tight turns maximising pump output and/or pump may be worn and needs replacement. Leakage can be from pump reservor,connection, or power rack and pinion steering assy. Spray off any area with a sign of fluid with a brake clean or carb. cleaner and look for signs of leakage.

I am guessing the steering rack is starting to go bad. That is quite expensive to fix. The whining noise is the rack sucking air due to the steering fluid has leaked out. You can check your power steering fluid level and add some with stop leak to see if that helps. The filler cap is at the rear of the engine on the passenger side and is quite hard to get to. Be sure to not reach down to remove the cap unless the engine is cool. There is a high risk of burning yourself on the exhaust manifold.

please find a reliable shop that is way to much money.it also might just need a power steering flush which i do at my work,which could fix the problem,If there is no leaks.hope this helps

Added power steering fluid