As the title says, I have an 01 Accord V6, and here is my problem.

when I first start the car, the steering is like turning a battle tank. It’s stiff and very hard to turn the wheel. After a few turns of the wheel i begin to hear this squealing noise. It’s fairly audible even for the slightest of turns and I’ll hear this throughout my drive. Now if I make a handful (more than 5) of turns or if I make a u-turn the squeal momentarily disappears, however after a few minutes of driving the squeal will return. Regardless of the amount of time driving that car, I near the squeal.

i have checked the power steering reservoir and there is a sufficient amount of steering fluid.


Hoping I can get some guidance and insights into correcting this problem

much appreciated for any help

 

Does the PS fluid in the reservoir look clear or foamy/filled with air bubbles?

 

I have attached a couple of pics that I took after driving for about 10 miles. When I checked it before I started the car it was clear, so clear that I thought it was empty, but no bubbles.

 

Are those air bubbles on top?

I believe that Accords of that era had an issue with an o-ring on the return line that would not seal and let some air into the system. It was a simple and inexpensive fix and definitely worth a shot before condemning the power steering pump. You should do a search on youtube for a video.

You will also want to inspect the belt that drives the power steering pump for signs of wear.

 

yes the bubbles were on the top

 

The pressure line on the PS pump is connected with a metal block and the O-ring is shown as #22. Its a pretty common problem, but you can also check whether the suction hose (#11) is fastened good. Any place where air can suck into the system would cause problems.

 

would air in the line explain the difficulty I have turning the wheel when I first start the car in the morning?

 

You should definitely hear a whining noise if that gasket needs replacing. Could it be a failing pump? Do you know if Honda fluid was put in when it was serviced?

 

i do not know the type of fluid unfortunately. I’ve watched some vids on YouTube about the whining noise. I definitely don’t hear a whining noise. Just extremely difficult in the beginning and then the squealing starts after a few turns

 

To me, a squealing noise sounds like a slipping belt. Can you have someone start the engine while you watch to confirm the PS pump pulley is turning properly? Then do the first couple turns in an empty parking lot somewhere, then confirm that the squealing sound is actually coming from the drive belt?