Power Steering Flush

My 2001 PT Cruiser started making noise when the steering wheel was turned a
bit in either direction, especially when cold. My 5 Star dealer just called
and recommended a flush and fluid replacement. Does this make any sense at
45,000 miles or so? (It uses Chrysler Power Steering fluid - they use an
after market flush kit with after market fluid).

Richard.

 

For what its worth I have a 1990 Mazda Protege (200K Miles) and did have a
1992 Grand Caravan (135K Miles) and never did a flush or fluid replacement.
However the van did blow out it's rack seals to good effect...oil on the
road etc...

Richard

 

is it a groan with a low tone?? or a high pitched one??? and how is it working
,the same as it has???

 

It was a high pitched transaxle type noise. After the flush the sound went
away.

Richard.

 

The 300M calls for a steering fluid change too and I was skeptical but
some rubbing in the steering disappeared after the fluid change.
Don't know if they also just lubed something that was binding.

 

Is there such a thing as a cold-weather steering fluid? I have seen
references on the Net to the existance of such a fluid that would make the
wheel easier to turn when cold? (0°F and lower)

 

Well, Chrysler new used synthetic transmission fluid (+4) in this
application for at least some models. This should do the trick once and for
all.

Richard.