Loud groaning noises from steering system

[jpearsall187]

I have a 97 Grand Prix GTP with 191,000+ miles. For the past couple of months, I have had a loud groaning sound coming from somewhere under the hood when I steer the car in either direction. This groaning is most noticeable at idle or very low speeds and when the car is first started up in the morning. It seems to get less noticeable at higher speeds and after the car has warmed up a while. Over the past few days, at idle/low speed and when cold, there is now more resistance when steering in either direction. Power steering pump or rack and pinion? (Hoping this is more PS pump than rack and pinion). The rack and pinion was replaced in 2009. Thanks

[Fivefingerdeathpunch]

Checked the fluid level yet?

But at 191,000 miles and if its the factory pump it could very well be the problem.

[RareGMFan]

I doubt it's the rack. If it groans when turning the wheel, then as FFDP suggested above, it's either low on fluid (so you have a leak somewhere), or the pump itself is on its last legs. The fact that there's more resistance to turns lately is a side effect of either of the above mentioned and a sign that which ever the problem is, it has gotten worse. As the fluid gets lower and lower/runs out completely, you will lose your power steering. Or if the PS pump has reached the point that it doesn't have enough juice left, the same thing will happen. Start by checking the fluid level.