On my wife's 960 I noticed that the main PS hose is seeping. Also where the return hose connects to the pump/reservoir, it's wet. Lastly, the rack seems to leak as well through the boots (mechanic also told me this).

The leaks are not that bad as I dont notice much of reduction in fluid levels. I do want the car to be safe for her though and not have her stranded, so here is what I am thinking:

a) Replace the main line and return line. That I think is wise to do for sure, right? Is Aftermarket OK for that part? How difficult is it to do myself?

b) Clean the pump/reservoir. Check if it is really also leaking or if wetness comes from seeping lines.. Or is it likely that the pump is bad too? No weird noises from pump...

c) Potentially have the rack replaced. That is an expensive one, so would only want to do if it gets worse, unless it is recommended because I am changing the hoses to do at the same time? Also, can the rack "all of a sudden" get worse, i.e. have her stranded, or is this something that if watched closely can be driven still for a while?

In case this matters: Steering only makes noise when fully turned, other than that no noise and steering wheel goes back to central position as it should.

What do you guys think?

 

Replacing the hoses should be relatively easy and straightforward. As for the leaking rack, maybe try a bottle of the Lucas Power Steering Stop-Leak. My rack was leaking out the boot on the passenger side and I put some of this in and it stopped. It's been over a year now, and everything still looks good.

 

I did the same exact thing on my 97 960 as well I recommend the lucas power steering stop leak. it also stop the leak on my car as well 2 months ago and is not leaking PS fluid.

 

The Lucas stop leak is good, but you have to remember it's only buying you time, rack replacement is inevitable once the leaks start, it's just a matter of when, not if. Replace the hoses at the same time, it's much easier (cheaper) to do when it's all out.