1999 CRV LX AWD power steering

Seems the pump is at fault and could have frozen during the inactivity.

Remove the fluid reservoir cap and start engine. Fluids should be running and if not, the pump might need a jump start. Try giving it some gentle taps with a mallet while engine is running.

Thanks for advice, there is definitely no fluid movement when I look down into the reservoir. Gave it a couple of raps, no help. Perhaps I should remove and dissassemble to free it up, what do you think?

Boohootch

Jack up front of vehicle and turn the steering from lock to lock without the engine running.

Repeat steps with engine running and lower jack and retest if the steering works.

Before removal of steering pump, try removing the pressure relieve valves to check for sticking. The pump being a vane type should not be stickingk easily.

If it is disassembled, the O'rings would have to be replaced.

Ok thanks, so where are the "relieve valves"

bohootch

Attached is a diagram of the power steering pump.

The relieve valve that I mentioned is the known as the flow control valve in the diagram. The cap is actually an Allen key bolt. Guess you would have to remove the pump to get at it.

Success! I removed the pump, opened up the "flow control valve" cap removed the valve (it looked ok) reassembled, installed and "viola" the bloddy thing worked.

Thanks for your help, you steered me in the right direction.

Bohootch

Glad to know you have fixed the problem.

Have a nice day.