This f'n winter is killing my truck. Between the bad gas mileage and an oil leak I found today, I just noticed my power steering is cutting out a little at idle in the cold mornings. Once I get back on the gas it has more power. It isn't nearly as noticeable on the way home from work later in the day. When it cuts out it isnt gone completely, I just notice it being slightly harder to steer. Could this just be due to the cold or is it what i'm dreading, a sign the pump is going.

 

Most likely the cold weather.

My 04 GP is like that in the morning on the way to school, I normally let it warm up for about 5-10 mins and then take off, i notice my first 2 turns are stiff, but it gets better. I wouldn't worry too much about unless you notice its gone completely.

 

Its prob the pump going. How does the fluid look.

 

The fluid looks good. Level is fine and I don't see any leaks. I hope SXR is right. From my experience most power steering problems begin with leaks, but I guess that isnt always the case.

BTW my oil leak was through my crankshaft seal. I thought that was pretty odd.