I noticed that the past week my steering wheel is harder to turn. It doesn't turn smoothly and lightly. I have 18's on the car right now. What could be the issue?

 

Most likely power steering pump failure. I've had this problem for a long time on my 04 TL(bought used last year). I doubt its from anywhere else because sometimes it feels light, and other times it feels as if its stiffer than having NO power steering.

Did alignment, flushed PS fluid, and still drives like crap.

 

Anyway to tackle and fix this problem?

 

maybe try a flush first and see if that helps. Heres my DIY
https://acurazine.com/forums/3g-tl-2004-2008-93/104-diy-power-steering-fluid-flush-761094/

If that doesnt work then changing the pump isnt hard. If I remember correctly its just a few bolts and it comes off. Maybe someone with the repair manual can chime in

 

Was this issue there before the 18s went on?

 

Yes, but it was not that noticeable. Still I thought, with the stock wheels on it will still somewhat hard to turn the steering wheel. I usually change my wheels between seasons.

 

Thanks so much for your help.

 

If there is a cheap way I would of done it long ago, this car has been a money pit for me ever since I got it lol. A used pump goes for about 100, and brand new is about 350. Factor in labor, its gonna cost another 300.

Is your steering ALWAYS stiff? Mine is 80% of the time. Its so fun to drive when it softens up.

 

Is the pump making any noises, possibly a moaning sound? If so I would try replacing the inlet o-ring first. However if this problem isn't fixed quick enough it will destroy the pump. $268.00 + shipping for a factory reman pump (20% off list of $335.00). Send me a PM if interested.

 

Mine was, but I fixed it with a new o-ring. Today I drove the car like 3 times, Steering softened up when it was blazing hot, then at night time it stiffened again.

Could tires and temperature be that big of a factor? My brother have a 04TL with higher mileage and I could steer with 1 finger >_>

 

never really pay close attention to what part of day it stiffens and softens, will get back to you on that.

 

Is Amsoil power steering fluid the closest to OEM steering fluid?