Power Steering Issue

[khill990]

I need to check my power steering fluid to determine if I have low fluid or if the pump is beginning to fail but the cap won't come off the reservoir. Firestone told me it was sealed by the factory after they failed to remove it also. Is it possible that it's just stuck or did the factory really seal the reservoir?

How should I proceed if i can't get it off to check the fluids? The power steering is growling whenever I turn the wheel and I'm sure it hasn't been touched since the car was made back in 1998... someone please help me with this issue.

[pbonsalb]

Reservoir is not sealed. Hose commonly leaks with age. Look underneath and you will see. This is likely your problem.

However, also check for broken or disconnected suspension parts. And the shaft needle bearing can dry out. Find the ujoint below the brake master and spray it with grease. Upper strut bearings can fail also but not so common.

[khill990]

Thank you, I will check today. Are there any suspension parts in particular I should look for. Also (and this may be a stupid question) but there is an arrow on the reservoir that points clockwise, is that the direction to tighten or release the cap. Usually that would be common knowledge but sometimes this car seems a little backwards and I don't want to break anything.