QuestionI own a 1994 Discovery since 1999 and it never gave me a problem. Suddenly last week, as I drove 4 km away from home, I felt a sudden difficulty in steering, at the same time I heard a continuous low frequence vibrating sound in the steering wheel, like a "squeak". Minutes after, it was almost impossible to turn direction, either left or right, as if the ignition key was off! I manage to park the Discovery but I´m affraid to drive it like it is, for I´m affraid it suddenly refuses to turn.
What could it be the problem? Do you think it could be easily solved?
Best regards,
Filipe Fonseca
AnswerHi Filipe,
could be the power steering pump. Check the reservoir to see if you have fluid then turn the engine over and listen for any problems around the power steering pump. With the engine off, examine the pump and look for leaks, gasket failure. You may have to remove the pump to have it bench tested.
I could be a seized bearing on the pulley wheel of the pump or it could be something internal. You can replace the pump by purchasing a new one from the dealer - about $700. A rebuilt is about $300. You can go to www.car-part.com and find a salvage pump for about $30 to $75.
I've purchased my last steering pump from a salvage yard for less than $85. It was not easy to install but I did it and save at least $700.
For now, make sure its the PS pump. You can limp into a local garage and have them test it out for you. They may charge you for the diagnostic time BUT its far less than what the dealer would charge. After that, you can decide to change it yourself or have someone else do it for you.
Best of luck,
JohnMc
