Well basically my car has leaked some power steering fluid into the car through the hole where the steering wheel passes through the firewall. I can recall putting some fluid into the reservoir about a month ago, the fluid is still topped off, it hasn't needed anymore since, but my question is: What could have gone bad, some kind of seal or something? What am i looking at here? It seems it will ruin my carpet.

SOURCE: Power steering not working

The first thing you have to ask yourself is "where did the old fluid go in the first place?"

Most likely, it is leaking from the steering rack itself, and into the dust boots, which is why you can't see it.

If the system was completely empty, you will have to fill it, and turn the wheel from left to right, all the way from "lock to lock" each way. This can be hard, but that's what you have to do to get the fluid back into the system.

It "should" only take 3-4 complete turns back and forth for it to work, unless there's a major leak. Then, top off the system.

Look under the car for any signs of fluid "weeping" from out of the steering rack.

SOURCE: power steering fluid leek on 89 honda accord

Should not be too hard. I have not done one on an 1986 model but I have on a 1983. The principle will be the same.

• You need to drain the fluid.
• Disconnect all the pump hoses.
• Release the pump pivot and adjustment bolts and remove the pump from the vehicle.

• Tighten all the bolts.
• Adjust the drive belt tension.
• Fill and bleed the system.

SOURCE: power steering fluid leaking.

With the engine switched off. Go under the car and clean of all the fluid you find. Now start the car and turn the steering wheel from full lock to full lock. Switch off the engine and go under the car and you should see the area of the fluid leek. With this information you can then decide how to tackle the repair.

SOURCE: Honda Accord 2001 6 cyl. the power steering fluid

Somewhere along the lines something other than PS fluid was put in there...More than likly a high deteregent fluid (at fluid, brake fluid). Somepeople have done this for a quick fill....which can ultimately lead to wear and tear of seals overtime they will deteriate into the fluid makeing it discolored then it will slightly burn giving it a darker color and funny smell..If this is not the case where no sub was added to the resivoir, then something is falty in the power stearing pump mechinisim..Or if you race the car on a track with high turns excessive use can also lead to a break down in the fluids make up....make sure on the next change to fully drain out all old fluid and flush it with a half qt of new fluid b4 you refill with new...Hope this was helpful for you...

SOURCE: My 2002 Honda Accord is making a whining noise

yes but the pump is fine as long as the steering is easy. if it isnt easy to turn then replace the pump or it could destroy the belt