I have a 99 Subaru Outback. The power-steering started to get stiff and the lights/radio etc started to dim and not work. My husband put in a new alternator belt and it fixed it — except the power steering. there is no squealing or noise or smells, just with turns at low speeds the power steering doesn’t work but will kick in randomly. Makes for a jerky ride! The fluid wasn’t low so I’m wondering if: the pump is going, the belt needs to be tightened, or it’s a hose issue. Can anyone help me?
It could be the pump or the rack, the mechanism that actually moves the wheels. You need a good mechanic to check this out as to what the actual problem is. Repairs can be expensive, especially if you mis-diagnose the problem.