Power Steering Pump Leak?

[DMCTX]

I have a 2006 LX470 that I bought 6 months ago with 260k miles. Without prior mechanical experience and with the help of this website I am slowly but surely resolving the various issues I'm aware of which brings me to the latest. The power steering fluid was low when I bought it and there is a mess of fluid/gunk around the power steering pump and on the hoses all the way up to the reservoir. (See pictures) Is this a leak in the power steering pump or just a leaky hose? Thanks a lot for the help!

 

[nissanh]

If you havent flush the P/S system, please do it. Clean fluid extends the life of all the componenets including the Steering rack.

From what I see, it looks like fluid leak (a slow sepage) at the reservoir. Remove the hose from the reservoir (don't put too much force to pull it out of the reservoir). Clean the reservoir and the strainer inside the reservoir. Use brake parts cleaner to clean the strainer (Wear goggles some time it can spray into your face). Allow the reservoir to dy and fill with a branded ATF fluid. Flush the steering rack at the same time (ENGINE OFF). lift front two wheels (no need to remove). Place the return line into a collection bucket and while key in the ignition on ACC, grab the wheel at 3 and 9 o Clock and move lock to lock. Once you see clean fluid comes out, reassemble the return line. Fill to correct level.

 

[DMCTX]

If you havent flush the P/S system, please do it. Clean fluid extends the life of all the componenets including the Steering rack.

From what I see, it looks like fluid leak (a slow sepage) at the reservoir. Remove the hose from the reservoir (don't put too much force to pull it out of the reservoir). Clean the reservoir and the strainer inside the reservoir. Use brake parts cleaner to clean the strainer (Wear goggles some time it can spray into your face). Allow the reservoir to dy and fill with a branded ATF fluid. Flush the steering rack at the same time (ENGINE OFF). lift front two wheels (no need to remove). Place the return line into a collection bucket and while key in the ignition on ACC, grab the wheel at 3 and 9 o Clock and move lock to lock. Once you see clean fluid comes out, reassemble the return line. Fill to correct level.

Thank you for the detailed response! I am going to do this ASAP.

 

[D21FJ60]

Change your serpentine belt too- yours looks beyond the end of its life.

 

[okoverland]

A lot of good info in this thread.

Steering Flush & Cleaning

Cleaning power steering reservoir and flushing it's fluid. Keeps Vane pump and rack & pinion in top condition. These step will help you get the idea. Power wash reservoir & hoses before starting, makes for cleaner job. Release clamps and place rags under reservoir & hose to catch spills. Pull...

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