I have a 2003 Dodge Caravan with the 3.8L engine. Since the weather has gotten cold, the power steering "groans" from time to time. Basically, if I turn the steering wheel back and forth, the power steering pump sounds like it is groaning. Also, it "groans" sometimes when I am waiting at a stop light and the wheels are not turned. It doesn't appear to affect steering at all, just the noise is annoying. Any ideas what might be causing this or how I can fix it?

 

I have an 06 GC and the power steering on it makes some groaning noise too. It changes pitch when you turn the wheel. As long as it isn't sqealing I think it is normal.

 

I would think this was normal if it did it all the time, but it only happens when the weather is cold.In the summer it doesn't make the groan or growling noise.