Mitsubishi Repair: 03 Eclipse power steering stiff cold weather, 20 mintues, weather thanks

Question
03 Eclipse GS power steering was stiff a few times when weather hit teens and single digits in Connecticut this past month.  After 20 mintues it went back to normal.  Dealership "couldn't duplicate the problem" and told me to call AAA if it happens again.  Anyway, is this type of problem common for a car/2 year old car in cold weather?  Thanks.

Answer
Kristine,
Sometimes moisture and/or debris can accumulate in the power steering fluid, causing hard steering when it's cold.  The power steering fluid does get thicker when it's cold.  It's not that common for hard steering to occur, but it can happen, and usually it does in the winter.  I would recommend having the power steering fluid flushed and filled with the proper viscosity power steering fluid.  Go back to the dealership and ask if this procedure is covered under your warranty.  If it's not covered under the warranty, ask how much it would cost to have them perform this.  You can also ask any local mechanic what they would charge for this.  Your owners manual will also tell you the correct type of power steering fluid your car needs.  

Odds are your car was warmed up when the dealership tested it.  And since they probably tested the car in their nice, warm garage, odds are too that they honestly could not duplicate the problem.  But ask them if your warranty would cover this service of replacing your power steering fluid.  There's a good chance that would fix your problem.
Good luck!