power steering pump?

whats up guys, so today all of the sudden out of no where my power steering dies... it only works when the engine is reving (works fine a little on the heavy side but fine); but doesnt when idling. im thinking power steering pump? does anyone have any other ideas on what it could be? also how hard is it to fix (i would like to do it myself) and how much would a new one cost? thanks guys:)

no one can help???

Check the level of P/S fluid. Add 11S if needed.

where is it... its not the same as the clutch and brake container right?

also can i damage anything while driving without power steering??thank you

Power steering fluid acts as coolant for the system, and lubricant. Driving without it will shorten the life of all the p/s components. Was it making any odd noises, like a whine when you turned the wheel before it died? It sounds like you're out of fluid

yea it makes whining noises... what kind of fluid do i need and where is the container for it? thank u

i just added some fluid. i turned the car on and it still doesnt work; now that whining noise is even louder. i also noticed a leak comin from the pump area. i am not sure if it is the actual pump or one of the hoses. how would i check which one it is?? any other ideas? thank you

Only use VW/Audi power steering fluid, 11S.

You could have f*cked the pump up by letting it run dry, and even more so (rack, too) if you didn't use Auid/VW power steering fluid.

yea i used the right fluid (11s). i dont know i didnt drive the car for a long time without the power steering...i dont know what to do.

You could have a clog, or if it's a leak in the rack it could need to be replaced.

fun

Oh, it is! I love broken stuff. Totally makes my day!

Let's hope it's not the steering rack. I had mine replaced at 132K mi.
for $1,000, using a remanufactured one from
www.carsteering.com