Lexus LX power steering issue

I'm experiencing an unsettling issue with my 2014 Lexus LX diesel. The power steering seems to be failing intermittently. Sometimes, the steering wheel vibrates and shakes violently, and the handling feels spongy. There's an error stored related to the power steering. Occasionally, it requires significant effort to steer, as if the power steering has completely failed. I've checked the hydraulic fluid level, and it seems fine. I’m suspecting a leak, but I can't pinpoint it. Could it be a pressure hose issue, the steering pump, or the steering rack?

4 comment(s)

I own an LX, and I had similar symptoms a while back. Before replacing major components like the steering pump or rack, have you checked the cable and plug connections to the power steering components? A defective connection can cause intermittent issues like the ones you described.

Thank you for the suggestion! I haven’t specifically checked the cable and plug connections. Could you elaborate on which connections I should focus on? Are there any specific areas known to be problematic?

In my case, it was a corroded connection near the steering pump. It's worth visually inspecting all connections you can easily access. However, if you are unsure, I'd recommend visiting a workshop so they can put your Lexus on the lift. They should be able to diagnose it quickly.

I wanted to express my sincere gratitude for the advice. Following the suggestion to check the cable and plug connections, I had a mechanic inspect them thoroughly. It turned out that a connection was defective; more precisely, a corroded plug. The repair cost a mere 95€, which is significantly less than replacing the pump or rack would have been. Thank you again for pointing me in the right direction!

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