Power Steering Pump Noise

[Sean Ng]

Hi Guys

My car is a 1996 W210 E230 with automatic transmission and self-levelling suspension system. The mileage is 195k.

Constantly there is grinding noise at the power steering pump (PSP). The grinding noise disappears after I spray PTFE lubricant at its pulley, but the noise will come back after about 1-2 weeks.

I wonder if anybody can tell me if that is the sign showing that the PSP is on its way out.

My understanding is that the self-levelling system and the PSP use the same source of hydraulic fluid. I have noticed that the hydraulic fluid is quite brown in colour. My last change of the hydraulic fluid is in August 2006 at the mileage of 152k.

Does the aged hydraulic fluid relate to the noises at the PSP?

I have been searching this forum but it seems that there is no thread for similar problem. Hope you guys can help.

Regards
Sean

 

[Xtractorfan]

Its possible that you need a new pump as the bearing may be shot in 198K miler

 

[BlackC55]

Seconded. Knackered PS pump. They are not expensive either.

 

[Sean Ng]

Thanks guys, and now I am trying to search for inexpensive power steering pump. Will post back after I replace the pump.

Sean Ng

 

[Sean Ng]

Dear All

I have eventually bought and fitted a new Power Assistance Pump (coded 0024663101). I bought the pump from a discount seller for GBP135 including p&p. It's dealer's price would be around GBP233 before p&p. A used pump quoted from salvage services is about GBP69 including p&p. Both GSF and Euro Car Parts do not seem to supply this kind of pump.

What I need to buy else are 2 copper washers for the banjo bolt of a connection pipe and 2X1L MB hydraulic fluid for the self levelling system.

Looking at the new pump, a keen DIYer will know what to do for removing the old pump out and installing the new one in. Just make sure to drain the old hydraulic fluid (suggested to be through the drain plug of the self-levelling system) before the fitting process, and to refill with new hydraulic fluid and new filter after the fitting process.

For more information relating to the above, please let me know.

Sean Ng