About to buy a 2000 Cherokee Sport 2WD. I was told it has a power steering fluid leak. Any suggestions where I should start looking for this leak? Should I not buy the vehicle?

 

Some problems re: power steering liquid leaking are solved with new hose. But better know more about that jeep first for there are cases of leaking lead to fire risk.

 

Start at the top?

 

It's one of three things. Pump, lines or box. It should be a good buy. Don't pass it up for one minor thing.

 

Most likely its your o-rings where the lines meet the box. Had the same issue when I bought my 92. Would squirt onto the exhaust and smoke like crazy.

Just put on some new hoses (do both while you're in there) and you should be good to go. Of course look inside and make sure that's where the leak is coming from but its the most common spot for a leak as far as I know.

Be freaking careful pulling that return line off the reservoir. The nipple is plastic and snaps off easily. Goes from an hour job to PITA real quick if you end up having to put on a new reservoir. Ask me how I know

 

Mine leaks from the reservoir at the o-ring where the reservoir slips into the pump.

 

Yeah that spot isn't very secure at all.