Power Steering Pump- 3rd Replacement in less than 2 years

I just brought my 2021 in yesterday for what I think is the PS pump. Was running fine then all of a sudden the wheel bounces a bit when turning sharp corners (like the power assist function is intermittent) and there is a squealing noise when turning. Was low on fluid about a 1/4 inch below cold low mark in the reservoir like the picture above. I have 70,000 km on it and this is the first problem I have had with it in 3.5 years of owning it. This is my third Tacoma. I was quite surprised. I owned a 2013 Sienna for 11 years and never touched the steering system or added a drop of fluid to it.

 

Dealer just told me it needs a steering rack. ouch

 

Most of our racks leak out of the boots around the inner tie rod. Mine has been leaking for 4-5 years. But only a small amount. Just top off your fluid 1-2 times a year. Replace if you have a puddle on the ground though.