I have a 97 Civic EX. When it's real cold outside like here recently it has not been over 35 degrees and when I first start the car the power steering doesnt work well. You can feel it trying to work but it's like it's coming in and out. Once I have been driving a while it works fine. The fluid is full and doesn't appear to be leaking by the way. I have only had this car like 3 months, if th previous owner didn't use the Honda approved power steering fluid would that cause this? Or is it just because it's so cold outside?

 

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My sister is having the same problem with her car. The power steering system has been flushed and refilled with Honda fluid. No changes. Does anyone have any advice?

 

I'm having the same issue over at Dallas Texas that's only 39 degrees outside. Is it the cold weather or have the pump or pulley gone bad? ( sorry to hijack but, I didn't want to make another thread for the same issue)

 

I see this thread is several years old and there has been no solutions suggested. I am having the same issue since it's gotten cold to the 20's in New Hampshire, my power steering is not assisting. As I back out of the garage I am pulling on the steering wheel with both arms and shoulders. If I let the car warm up, the steering wheel moves easily again. PS Fluid was not low at all. What should I be looking for?


Thanks for any insight.

 

^make a new thread next time, adjust the steering rack and check that there's enough fluid and that the belt's tight.

 

Mine is doing it as well. It has something to do with the power steering belt. I believe that the belt is a bit stiff when it gets cold outside and then when you try to turn the wheel the belt slips a bit when spinning the pulley on the PS Pump from the extra load.

Mine squeals when i turn the wheel. when the car is warmed up then it will turn smoothly as opposed to it feeling like its skipping when cold.

It may help to tighten the Power steering belt a little bit

 

Thank you so much, B Swapped93 and mimog3! I am a home mechanic in love with my '95 ex which was a gift from my Mom and Dad, passed away now ~14 years. I still miss them...Anyhow just to say how much I appreciate the help you have provided so I can take proper care of this car.

All the best to you