996 power steering fluid loss (honest)

[DickusMaximus]

OK - I've finally found out that the fluid leaking from my 996 is the power steering fluid. All of it seemingingly (from the 'cold and hot test' - over about 200 miles.

I can get it AA'd to my local specialist however I would like to know your opinions on topping it up and cracking on myself. Basically, how serious / expensive could it be / could it get?

I had though I was looking at the wrong end of an oil / coolant / brake fluid leak so this is something of a 'result' I feel!

Thank you.

Edited by DickusMaximus on Thursday 23 May 13:31

[Richard Hamilton]

Most likely one of the steering rack hoses. The end connectors corrode and split. A bit of a pig to DIY, unless you have all the gear and are handy with spanners.

[DickusMaximus]

Sounds promising that it won't be £0,000's at the indy then hopefully.

Thank you :-)

[Seagoon]

Mine did this - the pipe had worn through where it goes thro a p clip. If its pishing out and you can't keep it topped up, then the pump is at risk. Once it gets low enough to matter it will start howling like a banshee (air under pressure) and may pop the seals. The longer the drive to your specialist and the more steering input during the drive, the more fluid you will lose. If you have taken that distance to find the leak, I would think you are ok for a short drive.

[fioran0]

Is this the source of your fluid leak at the engine end?
If so be careful where its falling. Pentosin ignites as a liquid a touch north of 200C. Under pressure and coming out vapourised its pretty easy to have it go on fire.

[Tripe Bypass]

fioran0 said:

Is this the source of your fluid leak at the engine end?
If so be careful where its falling. Pentosin ignites as a liquid a touch north of 200C. Under pressure and coming out vapourised its pretty easy to have it go on fire.

Yep, risk of fire is highlighted on hydraulic power steering design and process FMEA.

[Richard Hamilton]

I've just seen your other post, where you say it is at the rear of the car! In which case I'll retract my first post. It could be a hose at the rear, but as has been said, best get it sorted as soon as poss.

[DickusMaximus]

The AA were here this morning. It's the high pressure hose. The car will be taken from Cornwall to the specialist in Sussex to sort. Hopefully, it'll not be over £1000