Hi Guys,

Been a lurker for quite awhile but always enjoyed the forum and the vast wealth of knowledge everyone has to offer here. Stumbled across a minor issue and after researching a bit, I'm hoping you can offer some advice.

I've got an '07 TL (3.2L AT) with 67K. The car has always performed well, but I've noticed that the steering has become a bit tight over the past 4-6 months. I always thought it was just the suspension and chalked it off, but now over the last 3 days I've started to experience a whining noise when starting the car. It's especially loud in the morning when the car is first started (in 30-45ºF weather) and mostly dissipates with a bit of driving.

I've read up a bit on the power steering o-ring failure and wondering if that is what I'm experiencing? I bought the car used a few years ago and have never brought the car to an Acura dealership for service. While I don't have my VIN handy at the moment, I'm pretty sure it wasn't eligible for any recalls/service when I checked a few months ago.


If it is the o-ring issue, is it something that I can fix without any sort of mechanical/technical background and limited access to anything but the most basic tools? I would love as much feedback as I can get, I love my car and want to keep it running in top shape. Thanks so much!

PS- Here's a photo of my ride after a nice wash/wax!



Grr... here's the link, sorry for so many posts (NEWB!):

 

There is a recall for most 3G TL models to replace a power steering hose which applies to your car unless the recall was already performed: TSB 08-016: Safety Recall: 2004–08 TL Power Steering Feed Hose Leak.

Make sure the recall was performed by running your VIN through the nearest dealer. If it wasn't, get the recall performed to avoid the fire risk from a bad PS hose.

Yes, the noise in your video is the PS whine. The recall also includes replacement of the O-ring on the PS inlet hose (low pressure side, not the recalled PS hose by the firewall) as well, so your noise problem should be resolved if your car hasn't had the recall work done.

However, some dealerships (like the one I used ) failed to change out the black O-ring with the new orange O-ring when they changed the recalled PS hose. A number of members (including me) had that O-ring go bad, so they ended up buying the O-ring for @ $1 and changing it themselves-- see DIY A-105 in the 3G TL Service Dept/Garage, or https://acurazine.com/forums/3g-tl-problems-fixes-114/diy-105-power-steering-whine-fix-754586/.

 

Thanks for the detailed response. Anyone else?

 

Bump

 

Power steering whine. Not a big deal, noise goes away for me after driving for 10 minutes...

 

Easy fix with a 10mm offset wrench....using the offset wrench is a tad easier to get in ther e and changing the o-ring fixed the problem.

 

Change the o ring out