Volvo Repair: Volvo S80 T-6, volvo s80, power steering fluid

Question
Mr TenBrook -

I have a '01 S-80 T6. Recently, it began to 'whine' after I've been driving for a while. It appears to be coming from the power steering. The whine gets louder if I'm stopped at light and turn the wheel in either direction. Also, the steering wheel stop short when you're turning sharp turns...like it's bucking.

Is my power steering going out?  

Answer
It could be going out.  It is usually a symptom of low power steering fluid.  Check your fluid level first.  If its low top it off and check the noise.  It should most likely go away.  If you have been going like this for a while and the noise is still there, then it could have caused the pump to burn out and you may need a new pump.  The parts alone are $400+.  Check for leaks too.  Usually the resevoir leaks out the bottom hose.  If it is replace the resevoir.  The system usually consumes alittle amount of fluid so don't be alarmed if you don't find a leak.  Just watch the level in the future.

James