Steering - Power Steering Hissing Noise

SOURCE: Kia Technician Times

TITLE: Power Steering Noise

APPLIES TO: 98-99 Sephia

SERVICE TIP:

CONDITION

Customer complains about a hissing noise coming from the steering. The noise usually sounds like its coming from the pedal area, and may transfer up the steering column. It occurs most frequently in right hand turns, and is worst when the fluid is hot.

CAUSE

The exact cause has not been determined, but the noise is coming from the control valve in the steering rack. The vendor has been contacted and is working with Kia to find the solution.

CORRECTIVE ACTION











Flushing the system with the correct power steering fluid will significantly reduce, or eliminate the noise.

Raising the front end of the vehicle off the ground will make it easier to flush the power steering system.

Using a suitable suction gun, remove as much fluid from the power steering reservoir as possible (remove the strainer on 1998 models). Disconnect the return hose from the power steering fluid reservoir and cap off the nipple. Connect one end of a drain hose to the power steering return hose and place the other end in a large (one gallon at least) container.

Refill the power steering reservoir with fluid specifically made for power steering (not ATF). Slowly turn the steering wheel from lock to lock to pump the old fluid into the container. Check the fluid in the reservoir and top off as necessary. Repeat flushing procedure until at least 2 quarts of fluid is in the container. Lower the fluid level in the reservoir until it is below the return nipple by turning the steering wheel a few more times. Remove cap on nipple and reconnect the power steering return line (reinstall strainer if removed). Fill reservoir to the low (cold) mark. Start engine and check for leaks.