QuestionQUESTION: 2003 Pilot 106k miles. Power steering makes a funny noise when cold but is normal (silent) after car warms up. The noise shoulds like the pump is laboring (or just working hard). Any ideas why after 100k, the system should start to make a noise and, of course, how do I fix it. I expect this is not unique to the Pilot but pretty generic.
ANSWER: Hi Brent, it's not just the Pilot specifically as a model of Honda's but in general all PS units. These require maintenance as well and not just topping off the fluid. I would suggest having the power steering fluid drained/flushed and replaced with new. This service is available at most popular Lube service facilities. But I would have it done at the Dealer because the price is about the same. The Dealer will also use Honda PS fluid which makes a difference too. Has the Pilot ever been in a Front end collision before? If so, inspect the PS rack at the Dealer while they perform the service. Let me know if this helps...
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QUESTION: Thanks Travis, This really helps. I have the Shop Manual for the Pilot but have not seen where service is required for the power steering system. I'll take a closer look. In that I am also preparing to replace the timing belt (I have a special tool on order, etc) I expect, relatively speaking, flushing the power steering fluid can't be a huge job. As I do the differential fluid, I'll use Honda PS fluid. Car has never been in a front end collision, knock on wood. I read somewhere else that the noise I was hearing may be air in the lines. I did notice bubbles in the reservoir when I last open the lid. I'll try the drain/flush service and hope the problem goes away. Thanks again.
ANSWER: Brent, if this does not solve the problem replace the PS pump. When you do the Timing belt make sure and replace the water pump and gasket, Camshaft(s) seals and inspect the belt tensioner pulley. Good luck!
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QUESTION: Reviewed the shop manual. The purge of the PS system seems pretty straight forward. I didn't have much luck finding anything about camshaft seals in the shop manual. The pump and tensioner are obvious and the seals may become more obvious once I open things up. Is the seal something I disturb during the teardown? Again, nothing jumped out at me in my review of the shop manual so any help you could provide would be appreciated.
AnswerBrent, on any timing belt replacement i always replace the seals to the water pump and camshafts because they are loosened and disturbed from there seated position. And for $2-$3 per seal why not? If you don't get it exactly seated again it is possible they will leak. Water pump seal is behind the actual aluminum setting. You will see it when you pop it off. Definitely buy Honda for the pump and seals. It will make it a lot easier for you.
