Need Help! Power Steering Fluid leak

[Alex]

Was wondering if anyone could help.

My Fiat Bravo's (1.2 SX - V reg) power steering fluid is leaking. It leaks from the power steering pump's switch/sensor(?). Well.. I'm not sure what that component is called, but it's the small gold/black connector thing that sits on the pump. Looks like a sensor to me. Took it to a Fiat Garage and they said it needed the whole pump to be replaced which would cost almost £300!! (including labour). Anybody can suggest a lower cost alternative? Cheers! Alex

 

[Nigel]

Alex, I dont think that fiat do an overhaul kit for the pump, although the unit itself is just under £100 if you wanted to do it yourself. I must admit that its something I have never done on a Bravo/a although I have done them on other vehicles and its MESSY and you should wear some think gloves while doing it.

Nige

 

[Deckchair]

Re: Re: Need Help! Power Steering Fluid leak

The steering pump pressure sensor senses when the steering is under load and is supposed to up the tickover to compensate. Depends how big the leak but I remember mine started to leak quite early on at 8K miles but then sort of cured itself and is still OK now at 73K. Leaks don't normally cure themselves but I also had a camshaft oil seal leak, got the part ready to change it and that one cured itself too! Maybe I'm just lucky!

You could of course try removing the sensor which is probably just a taper fit (comes out just like a normal oil pressure sensor I guess) and try wrapping the thread perhaps with PTFE tape. Steering fluid is is messy stuff though. I would just monitor it for a while if the leak is small.