Power steering fluid leak: heavy steering and whining pump noise

“Power steering fluid leak” and “steering whine when turning” are high-intent safety queries. Hydraulic pumps die quickly when starved of fluid; electric PAS faults show as warning lamps instead.

Hydraulic systems

• Puddles near the front subframe
• Whine that changes with steering angle
• Heavy wheel at low speed
• Foamy fluid in the reservoir

Electric power steering

No fluid to top up. Faults need scan tools for torque/angle sensors and motor modules. Do not ignore a steering warning light.

Book inspection on CarFix; say whether the car is hydraulic or electric assist and when the noise appears.