Recently picked up my 2002 wrx and have just started noticing that on first turn of the wheel on start up the power steering seems lumpy. There is also a whine when driving which goes up and down with revs and mostly goes when clutch is depressed. Have had a listen in the engine bay and noise seems centred around the belts. Any suggestions? To my knowledge the cambelt has been replaced fairly recently other then that I'm not sure. Power steering fluid level seems fine. Any suggestions would be much appreciated. Thanks.

 

It might just be as simple as adjusting the tension on the alternator

 

I did think it might be that, but there is a squeal when on full lock as well. Although it is possible that its two separate issues i suppose? Guess the power steering fluid may just need changed? Not sure when it was last done.

 

Check the belt first. On full lock the pump is working very hard. A slack belt mY slip and squeal.

May also be a clutch bearing issue as the noise goes when the clutch is depressed

or two seperate issues

 

Ok update here. This has got me confused. I think the whine is the fan belt needing changed? However still a slight issue with the steering. Its sometimes lumpy on startup and feels much to light above about 40/50mph? I can turn the wheel over an inch or so each way with no effect/feel? Is this normal? It may just be that im use to driving a car on coilovers on the stiffest setting very low that it feels light although i dont think so!

Apologies for the babbled post...realise it may be a bit confusing but i am confused