Ghost in my power steering

[tylerdurden2816]

So maybe six months ago my power steering stopped working pretty abruptly. Plenty of PS fluid, no whining when turning, just didn't work. It was drivable so it wasn't a high priority. Then about five days ago it started working again like nothing ever happened! Then yesterday it went out again. What's also interesting and might be a clue is, when the PS started working right I thought I was imagining it, but the car ran better. Felt like more horsepower and accelerated more smoothly. When it went back out again it changed. The best way to describe it is like it switched to more torque and less horse, like accelerating a diesel if that makes sense. Still no problems w highway onramps or driving fast, just a different feel in the pedal. Anyone have a clue what's going on here?

[fastblackmerc]

So maybe six months ago my power steering stopped working pretty abruptly. Plenty of PS fluid, no whining when turning, just didn't work. It was drivable so it wasn't a high priority. Then about five days ago it started working again like nothing ever happened! Then yesterday it went out again. What's also interesting and might be a clue is, when the PS started working right I thought I was imagining it, but the car ran better. Felt like more horsepower and accelerated more smoothly. When it went back out again it changed. The best way to describe it is like it switched to more torque and less horse, like accelerating a diesel if that makes sense. Still no problems w highway onramps or driving fast, just a different feel in the pedal. Anyone have a clue what's going on here?

Clean the VAPS sensor connector on the left side of the rack near the oil filter.

[tylerdurden2816]

I'll give it a shot, what do u suggest to use, rubbing alcohol?

[Zack]

Brake cleaner

[fastblackmerc]

Brake cleaner

What he said and some silicone dielectric grease after it's cleaned and contacts are shiny

[tylerdurden2816]

Ok sounds like a plan, thanx!