MR2 roadster steering problems?

[dgandlc]

Only had car about a month bought a 2001 with 77k, just noticed that the steering is getting extremely heavy especially in the morning. Ive looked for the power steering fluid but can't see it. Anyone know where to find it? also what should i use to top up with? and also if anyone knows where the P/S relay is would be a help as ive heard these area a common fault! (dont know how true this is)

[Ekona]

Power steering pump has been known to fail on a fair few cars in the past, given your mileage I'd suspect that as a very likely cause. Power steering fluid is located in the frunk, you can't really miss it as it's got power steering fluid warnings all over it

[dgandlc]

Found it didn't realise had to take all the plastic trim out from the frunk . My levels is on max. Started the engine felt the steering was heavy but then removed the relay and it got heavier! Do pumps gradually wear? The cars steering is definatly heavier now then when i bought it i february but not as heavy as it is with no relay in

[Ekona]

Pumps definitely wear, I know of at least 5 owners who have had to replace theirs and that's only who I can remember off-hand. Try a scrappy for a replacement, Mr T are notoriously expensive for the pump.

[dgandlc]

Found that one already got a quote from a toyota specialist and a new pump was £1028+vat! I thought about a second hand and the best i could find was £345+vat and £20 delivery. But who's to say a second hand one isn't going to fade with in a year.

Anyone know of a company who reconditions power steering pumps?
AS an engineer i could probably do it myself but wouldn't know where to find the parts as Toyota don't supply a kit for the pump!