I hear a rattling noise near the center firewall of my '06 civic when I turn the steering wheel in park or during initial acceleration/deceleration. Does it have something to do with the power steering? I know it's not an axle problem b/c I checked all the boots. It has 42000 miles. Thanks in advance.

 

The steering system is under the greatest strain when stopped or going slow. That's when you would most likely hear a problem. Have a friend turn the wheel while you listen to pinpoint where the noise is coming from. Check the P/S fluid, it shouldn't be dirty looking and make sure you have enough. Inspect the boots on the steering rack. Otherwise you'll have to take the whole rack out to inspect it any further.