I have a 2000 S70 GLT. Operates fine when cold, but after driving for 20 or 30 minutes, I will hear a groaning noise when I turn the wheels (even slightly) to the left or right. The noise doesn't seem to be coming from the steering wheel area, and it gets louder the further I turn the wheels. I have verified that the power steering fluid is at the correct level. Any thoughts on what else to check?

 

Could be the rack or pump.

 

Thanks - what's a reasonable price to get the P/S pump replaced, if that is the problem?

 

From experience the rack would be first to go bad.
But the pump is pretty expensive as well.

 

The rack usually costs around $360. PS pumps are not DIY rebuild item and you can have the professionally refurbished one as a replacement. A core charge is usually asked for the new pump and when you bring the old pump for rebuild you can take back the charge.

 

Just an update - problem resolved. It was a bad P/S pump. Bought a refurbished one for about $150 (new is about $450-500) - and had the local mechanic install it for $160.