Slow Power Steering Leak

Noticed about a few years ago small spots (Few) on the driveway. Upon getting an oil change, mechanic stated I had a power steering leak. Could not tell me where but wanted to charge 1,200.00. I did a engine and low carriage clean and looking to see if anyone has an idea on where the very slow leak is coming from. The power steering fluid is not low, sitting right at the middle line for the fluid.

 

There are various spots where the PS can leak. Pump, lines going into the rack, or the rack end seals. If you are not seeing fluid or a level change, there's no leak.

My rack end seals were weeping as seen with wetness on the tie rod boots. Some compatible Mazda PS / ATF ( Dexron III compatible per the OM ) seems to have conditioned the seals and fixed this for me.


Note that the timing cover leak is often confused with a PS pump leak.

 

Mechanic noted the under carriage looked like it had a major leak at the bottom top which I said that there has been no puddles or huge leakage at work or in my driveway but just spots here and there. He suggested to clean under carriage to spot the leak ........

 

Look at the boots on the steering rack. Likely wet and full of oil.

 

That is not a bad suggestion. A little bit of oil can make a large mess. Don't rule out that it could be a fluke, like something kicked up on the highway.

 

99% sure it is a timing cover leak. It would be on the passenger control arm and dripping off the front of the engine near the PS. On that year tacoma, they forgot some sealant or something.

 

How did they quote $1200 to fix it if they don't know what's leaking?