1999 Chevrolet Lumina - Power Steering Pump Pulley

DIY Power Steering Pulley Replacement

A power steering pump pulley transfers power from the engine to the power steering pump, which then supplies the hydraulic pressure that operates the power steering. Most power steering pulleys are made of either aluminum, steel, or cast iron, and can be either single- or double-grooved, depending on the vehicle's year, make, and model. Since the power steering pulley is in motion any time the engine is on, it is possible for a power steering pump pulley to fail from use, wear and tear, and exposure to high temperatures. Pulleys can also suffer from cracking, become loose, or may suffer from a damaged belt seating surface that can cut or mar the belt. Symptoms of a failing power steering pulley may include unusual noises or vibration during steering, burning smells or groaning noises when turning, difficulty turning the steering wheel, or a loss of power steering altogether. A misaligned pulley can also cause issues within the entire engine belt drive system, so be sure to inspect your pulley alignments when inspecting the steering system or the belt. Avoid power steering failure by noticing warning signs of a bad power steering pulley, and let O'Reilly Auto Parts help you maintain your vehicle with our article on bad power steering symptoms. We also carry all the parts you may need for your repair, including power steering pumps, fluid, hoses, and power steering rental tools.