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This morning, I went to start my 2002 Dodge Caravan, it ...


Sent to Car Experts December 02, 2005 8:49 a.m.

This morning, I went to start my 2002 Dodge Caravan, it started fine but as I went to back up I noticed I couldn't steer at all.. later I noticed a pink fluid under my car. What is wrong with my vehicle? Thank you

Optional Information:
2002 Dodge Caravan V6

Already Tried:
The power steering fluid was low and I tried adding it, It was cold this morning so I also tried to left it warm up to see if that would help. Neither helped at all
Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Status: Closed   Value: $5   
Answer
December 02, 2005 9:17 a.m. (28 minutes and 1 second later)
ACCEPTED Check Mark

It sounds like your power steering line has developed a leak. There is a power steering cooler located under the front or the van near the center of the vehicle. Steel lines run to an aux cooler where there are two rubber hoses that attach to the cooler itself. The rubber lines are known to split resulting in the situation you describe. Sometimes the fluid used for the power steering system is transmission fluid and it is red in color, or it may be clear.

Note when this happens it will loose the fluid very fast. Adding fluid won't help it will pump it out right away.

Also don't run the vehicle too long without fluid in the PS pump as this will cause a dry run situation resulting in premature pump failure.

This is not a big dollar repair, a couple of rubber hoses and clamps should do it.

You may want to check with your local dealer for a possible recall on these lines. I don't know if this vehicle is eligible.

Good Luck and Happy Holidays!

Please accept if this helped.

Mike

Mike  -- Auto Service Technician -- 100% Positive Feedback on 12 Car Accepts
ASE Certified Master Tech L-1 Cert. Chrysler Gold Tech

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