Temporary loss of power steering assist

Good advice but I think you should replace the drive belt. Make sure to pay close attention to the timing belt advice because this is a critical area. Sometimes you can open the hood and watch the power steering pully (mark it with chalk or white paint) as someone slowly turns the steering wheel. The belt can slip right over the pulley without turning it. Mist the belt with water and I bet the pulley won’t turn. The belt may be loose too but I would replace it anyway.