* Worn or Damaged Seals: This is the most frequent cause. Age and wear cause the seals within the pump to deteriorate, allowing power steering fluid to leak. High mileage is a major contributing factor.
* Cracked or Damaged Pump Housing: The pump's casing itself might crack, usually due to age, corrosion, or impact damage. This will lead to fluid leakage.
* Loose or Damaged Lines/Hoses: While not strictly *on* the pump, leaks in the high-pressure power steering hose leading to or from the pump are often mistaken for a pump leak. Check these carefully for cracks, kinks, or loose connections.
* Worn Pressure Switch: This is less common but possible. A failing pressure switch might leak fluid, though this is often a smaller leak than those from seals or the housing.
* Improper Installation (if recently serviced): If the power steering pump was recently replaced or worked on, improper installation could have damaged seals or caused a leak.
To diagnose the specific cause:
1. Visually inspect the pump: Look for obvious cracks, wet spots, or fluid dripping from any part of the pump.
2. Inspect the lines and hoses: Pay close attention to the connections and the lines themselves for signs of wear or damage.
3. Trace the leak: If you can pinpoint where the fluid is originating, this will help you narrow down the problem.
4. Check the fluid level: Consistently low power steering fluid points to a leak somewhere in the system.
Without a visual inspection, it's impossible to definitively state the cause of the leak. A mechanic will be able to diagnose and repair the problem properly. Replacing the power steering pump is often the solution, but fixing a hose or seal is a less expensive option if that's the source of the leak.
