Power steering pump noise

[Rev599]

Daft question, but should there be a constant noise coming from the power steering pump?

It's definitely pump as it varies in frequency as i steer.

It doesn't sound sinister, just a definite sound of the pump working from the moment i switch on the ignition.

The engine drowns it out, so it's only noticeable at idle as background noise.

Cheers

[Snorkie]

Yes I think the pump runs all the time. I also think it does cut out above 50 mph. This info is off the top of my head if i'm wrong, some one more knowledgeable will be along soon

[Rev599]

Cheers snorkie.

I've always noticed the noise, but it's my first mr2 and I've only just really thought about whether it should be there or not

[webb2800]

I'm actually having a similar issue with mine. Got it back on the road after a few years and I'm sure the motor noise wasn't there before. The pump should autmotically switch off if the wheel isn't moved for a while (and the car is under about 10mph) mine currently runs constantly. Also, the pump shouldn't come on with the ignition, only when the engine is started.

[jimi]

If you look on page SR-63 of the BGB there's description of the Power Steering diagnosis system

https://mr2oc.co.uk/downloads/technical-stuff/mk2.html