Troubleshooting Power Steering Pump Cavitation When In Cold Weather

Question:

I installed a power steering cooler on my 2005 Honda Pilot. When it gets cold outside the pump cavitates on start up and continues when turning the steering wheel until the engine warms up to normal operating temps. It doesnt make noise at all in the summer. Is it necessary to bypass the cooler in the winter?

asked by: Jason

Expert Reply:

Power steering pump cavitation in cold weather is common when the power steering fluid needs to be flushed and the filter of the pump needs to be cleaned. The fluid gets thicker when cold so that is why it is more likely to first start happening when cold outside.

Cavitation is defined as whining from the pump and a difficult to turn steering wheel.

expert reply by: Jameson C