First ... Thanks for reading. Second, I'm in love with my 2007 California Special. I am asking for help since my "babe" isn't exactly a spring chicken.

With 63,000 miles, I now am experiencing steering trouble. Is this common? I took her to get the 60k service at the Ford dealer and they laughed at me. I only needed new tires... easy to figure out since I tend to burn them out. But, four months later she is having steering trouble. Low RPMs can't move steering, high RPMs no problems. New pump?

I did some searches on your forums and Webster454 had the same issue with their 07 GT. What else should I expect with my car ... aka my obsession ... if diagnosing is in my future?

Thanks for your time!

-Kristina

 

Welcome aboard. 63,000 miles is quite low for a 2007.

As long as there's plenty of fluid in pump not sure what is wrong with it..

 

Welcome, 63000 miles is pretty low, did you check the fluid level and quality? Are the belts ok?

 

Here is a picture of ... my love:

 

Haven't checked any belts - is there a way to do that?

The fluid is at minimum level when the car is not turned on. Was told to not keep the power steering fluid at max?

 

VERY NICE!!

I think you have one serpentine belt, they usually squeal when they are worn.If it's the original belt, it's probably gotten hard and slick. You might be able to hear it if you have someone else turn the wheel with the hood open. Check the belt for any hairline cracks.
Fluid level should be ok.

 

Thanks :-)

Is there a way to see the serpentine belt? I have an appointment with the Ford Garage tomorrow, but want to try all avenues before going in and being taken advantage of.

Worst part about having my car, is taking her to the dealer - I am not dumb.

 

the serpentine belt runs everything from the power steering to the alternator, air conditioning compressor, and the engine's water pump. if the serpentine belt was at fault you'd have way bigger problems.

if when you say you can't move the steering wheel at low RPMs, then I can only think of two things:

1) the power steering pump isn't able to generate enough hydraulic pressure to do the job, which means you'll likely need a new one. or, maybe the inside of the high-pressure hose has degraded and is blocking fluid flow.

2) the spool valve in the steering rack is stuck, which means you'll likely need a new steering rack.

unfortunately, a lot of places will assume you are.

 

Power steering fluid has to be checked with the engine running. Put some fluid in it