So after 40-50 mph the steering rack feels light...is this normal or indicative of an issue with the steering? On the freeway it almost feels like it is floating.

When driving in parking lots, the steering is kind of hard and then when I get almost to the end, it kind of wants to pull itself to opposite lock.

Power steering fluid is full, though when I had the car up in the air on a rack and turned the wheel by hand, a lot of fluid leaked out of the reservoir. (not sure if this is normal)

Tires have lots of tread but are 7 years old and garaged...these will also be replaced soon.

Thanks!

 

Fix the leak on the reservoir and get all of the air out of the system. With the car running, Open the cap on the reservoir and turn the wheel lock to lock slowly to bleed out the air. Report back.

 

Also replace those tires ASAP! Anything over 5 years you are playing with fire, ever see what an exploding tire can do to a fender? Not to mention the risk of an accident. You will amazed how much smoother, quieter, and more responsive the car is with a proper set of tires.

 

Depending on the tread compound, old tires' treads could have hardened up from age. That will make steering feel light. You'll get almost the same feel with very high tire pressures.

 

Also make sure you have an undertray.

If not, steering will get lighter as you go faster.

 

Keep in mind that's how Paul Walker died.

 

yep I am shopping for wheels and tires, car is put away until this is done.

I had two professionals drive the car and they told me it's a combo of the tires and the caster is off...so new wheels/tires and an alignment should take care of it!

Haven't noticed any more leaks from the power steering reservoir, so not sure what happened there.