Tutoweb - Forum

So I've got a bit of a worrying development with my Ford Fusion that started a few days ago and seems to be getting worse. There's this distinct whining noise coming from the front of the car whenever I turn the steering wheel, especially at low speeds or when I'm parking, and the steering feels noticeably heavier than it used to. I checked the power steering fluid level and it was a bit low, so I topped it up, but the noise hasn't gone away and the steering still feels stiff. I'm wondering if there might be a leak somewhere in the system, or maybe the power steering pump itself is starting to fail. I'm also a bit concerned because I noticed some fluid spots on the driveway, which I'm pretty sure is power steering fluid leaking. I really don't want to leave this too long because I know a failing power steering pump can leave you stranded with incredibly heavy steering, and I definitely don't want that to happen while I'm driving. I work near the ICAD area and I'm hoping to find somewhere nearby that I can take the car to without having to go too far out of my way. I've been searching for Ford repair in ICAD and I've seen a few options, but I always prefer hearing from people who've actually been through something similar. Has anyone else had power steering issues on their Fusion and got them resolved? What was the root cause and roughly what did it cost you?