My 1995 Golf III began to squeal when I turned the steering wheel. Almost sounds like a belt squeal but only does it when I turn the wheel. Seems to get worse when the car has not been driven for a few hours and almost seems like power steering in nonexistant when the weather is wet. As the car warms up it seems to stop or at least minimize but recently it began to click when I turn to the right. Almost sounds like it is coming from front driver's side wheel. Any ideas what could be wrong with it?
Sounds like the belt needs replacement, or at least check the belt tension. Check your power steering fluid level and condition. Most power steering systems specify ATF fluid, so it should be red not black, brown, or milky. If it is black, the power steering has overheated for some reason. If its milky, it is contaminated by water. In either case, the fluid should be replaced.
Bad alignment or worn steering gear can cause the pump to have to work overtime. Have your alignment and front end checked. If these are fine, the pump or steering rack may have failed.
The clicking noise is likely a CV joint. Stick your head under the front of the car (properly chock the rear wheels first of course) and look for the rubber bellows looking things that go to the center of the front wheels. If there is any grease leaking from the CV boots near the wheel or the transmission, that is where your clicking noise is coming from.
Could be two problems. First the power steering; Check the tension of the drive belt for the power steering and the condition of the belt. If that appears to be OK, check the level of the fluid and its condition or apperance compared to new fluid that is recomended by the manufacturer. If that appears OK, it could possibly be the power steering pump it self. Second the clicking; It is most likely a bad CV (constant velocity) axle. Good Luck.
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