PS High Pressure Hose Crack
The rubber section of the high-pressure power steering line (pump to rack) cracks with age. Less common than PS Reservoir Hose Brittle but significantly more expensive to fix.
Symptoms
- PS fluid leak visible lower in the engine bay (near pump or rack area, not reservoir)
- Fluid spray pattern may be noticeable under pressure (steering turned)
- Steering heaviness if fluid loss is significant
- Visible crack in the rubber section of the high-pressure line (may require inspection from below)
Cause
The high-pressure hose has rubber sections connecting metal tubing. The rubber degrades with heat and age, eventually cracking under the hydraulic pressure of the PS system. No partial repair — the entire assembly must be replaced [Probable — forum consensus].
Diagnosis
- Distinguish from PS Reservoir Hose Brittle — this leak is further downstream, between pump and rack
- Best diagnosed on a hoist — inspect the rubber sections of the HP line for cracks or weeping
- Clean the area first (engine wash helps) then look for fresh fluid
Fix
Parts:
- OEM: 44410-30410 PS Pressure Feed Tube — ~1,237)
- No partial rubber-only replacement option — entire assembly required [Probable]
Labour:
- Requires removing sway bars beneath the vehicle to access the hoses [Probable]
- Fish new hose through from the top — “take it slow” [Probable]
- Tight quarters — professional installation advisable
- Estimated 2-4 hours labour
Estimated total cost: $900-1,500+ (parts + labour)
Prevention
- No known prevention beyond regular inspection
- If PS Reservoir Hose Brittle has occurred, inspect this hose at the same time — similar age, similar degradation timeline
Owner Reports
- ClubLexus owner (2002 SC430, 170,000 miles / ~274,000 km) found small crack in rubber portion [Reported]
- Forum consensus that this is a known age-related failure [Probable]