Checks, in order
- Fluid level and conditionCheck the reservoir. Foamy fluid or a whining pump suggests low fluid or air. Top off only with the fluid specified for your truck.easy $ · under about $50
- Clean and find the leakClean around the pump, hoses and rack, drive a short distance, then look. Wetness at the hose ends and fittings is the cheapest fix.easy $ · under about $50
- High-pressure and return hosesInspect the hoses for seeping crimps, swelling and rubbing. Replace any that are wet or soft.medium $$ · about $50 to $500
- Rack ends and pinion areaCheck the rubber boots at each end of the rack. Boots swollen or wet with fluid, or fluid near the pinion where the rack meets the steering shaft, mean the rack is leaking internally.medium $$ · about $50 to $500
- Replace or reseal the rackA leaking rack is usually replaced with a remanufactured unit. Plan for an alignment afterward and flush the system so debris does not damage the new rack.hard $$$ · shop-level job, $500+
Applies to: US-market UZJ100 Land Cruiser and Lexus LX 470, 1998 to 2007, with the 2UZ-FE 4.7L V8 (timing belt). AHC items apply to the LX 470 only; most US Land Cruisers have conventional shocks. Transmission is the A343F or A750F depending on year, so check the fluid spec for your truck.
Tools and parts for these checks
Links below are Amazon affiliate links: as an Amazon Associate, toyotadata earns from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Confirm fitment for your exact truck before you order.
| ITEM | USED FOR | BUY |
|---|---|---|
| Power steering fluid for your truck | Topping off with the factory-type fluid | Shop on Amazon |
| UV leak detection kit | Finding where the fluid is escaping | Shop on Amazon |
| Fluid transfer pump | Filling through the fill or check plug | Shop on Amazon |
| Pry bar set | Checking ball joints, bushings and tie rod ends for play | Shop on Amazon |
Other steering & suspension problems on the 100 Series Land Cruiser / Lexus LX 470
- LX 470: AHC lights flashing, truck sagging, uneven ride height or won't raise
- Clunk, rattle or wander in the front suspension
More 100 Series Land Cruiser / Lexus LX 470 problems
- Timing belt due, squeal or rattle from the front of the engine, or coolant and oil weeping at the front (Engine)
- Engine temperature gauge climbing, overheating or losing coolant (Cooling)
- Turn the key: click or nothing, engine won't crank (Starting & Charging)
- Engine cranks normally but won't start (Fuel & Ignition)
- Rough idle, stumbling or a misfire code (P0300 to P0308) (Fuel & Ignition)
- Check engine light with P0171, P0174 or air-fuel sensor codes (P2195, P2197) (Fuel & Ignition)
All 15 100 Series Land Cruiser / Lexus LX 470 symptoms in the interactive troubleshooter →
General guidance from owner experience. Confirm torque specs, fluid capacities and procedures in the factory service manual. Brakes, steering and anything structural: if in doubt, have a qualified shop inspect it before driving.