Toyota Repair: 04 Sienna steering tight, power steering rack, power steering fluid


Question
Hi and thank you so much for offering assistance on Toyota's!! we have a 2004 Sienna, not sure of the engine type, suddenly the steering has become very tight at all times in general, definitely different that normal, tight on turns and even when driving straight. Just looking for some help as to what is going on before succumbing to the dealer. Thanks so very much for you time and attention.

Answer
There are a few things that should be checked:
the power steering fluid level in the reservoir
the power steering belt
the power steering pump for leaks
the steering rack assembly for leaks
If these are ok and there are no leaks it's possible that the power steering pump has lost pressure or the power steering rack has an internal malfunction.