I've searched here before on other issues to my benefit and appreciate the service. Haven't felt the need to post until now, can't find a match to my problem. I've got an '01 T & C, 3.3L, 190k, with a power steering pump whine. My local (sometimes unreliable) shop tells me the wire mesh screen filtering the fluid inside the pump is too fine, and easily clogs. Is this accurate? Any fix short of replacement? Thanks.

 

Welcome to DF

I will move your post to the minivan section. The screen has far as I know is in the power steering reservoir. I would recommend to replace both the pump and reservoir.

 

[My local (sometimes unreliable) shop tells me the wire mesh screen filtering the fluid inside the pump is too fine, and easily clogs]

Your shop is correct. my '03 Caravan has had this issue occasionally. I fix the problem by removing the reservoir and cleaning the screen. I still have the original pump. If you're handy there are some videos on youtube with the full procedure

 

Yup, I've read about it numerous times over the years. That screen has caused many a headache. Many just replace the reservoir. They are relatively cheap at dealerships. Machts nichts but 3rd generation vans have no screen. My 96 has had ZERO power steering problems in 18 years and 211K miles.