I have a 2002 Yukon XL. Today the power steering started howling. Mild at idle but louder when you accelerate. Checked the fluid but it is full. It is a light brown and very very frothy. Like a milkshake.

Any suggestions? Car is hard as crap to turn at low speeds now. Like the power steering is all gone.

 

Your power steering fluid is foaming due to air getting in the fluid. The pump cannot pressurize the foaming fluid very much and that is why the steering effort is so high.

Is the fluid level up to the bottom of the dip stick when cold? If not fill it up to the first mark on the bottom of the stick (about 3/8" from the end) and see if that takes care of the problem. Then try tightening the hoses and check for leaks (you will need a metric flare nut wrench like the Sears Craftsman set http://www.sears.com/sr/javasr/produ...&bidsite=CRAFT). The pump itself may be shot and you may need to replace it.

 

Many thanks. Going to have the wife go on down to pep boys and get some fluid.