Groaning noise. Please help me diagnose

[dgjks6]

I have had my 1999 996 cabrio for 5 months and had a bunch of little problems. But now I have a big one. I really don't want to take to the dealer 40 minutes away for a diagnosis. I really don't have time.

I am sorry if this is not organized well, so if you think of a more specific question let me know.

So here goes. Put on the hard top. Went to a movie that night and then to work. The car makes a groaning nosie at times. I have tried to narrow it down but I can't. I can not hear it at highway speeds. It is intermittent. It is not there when I start the car, but it is there sometimes when I am stopped at a stoplight. I happens when I turn the steering wheel left or right, and sometimes it does not. Some times it is there when I apply the brakes.

Then temps have been in the 30's. Don't know if that matters.

The noise seems to be from the back drivers side.

I thought maybe a bearing but happens when I am stopped. I thought maybe the transmission, but happens in neutral or in gear, clutch in or out.

No lights on. Car runs perfect. Just a loud groan at times.

So if you guys can walk me through it step by step, I would appreciate it.

I am going to check pulleys when I get home. I did this a few weeks ago and all seemed good.

Oh, and is it safe to drive? I do have to drive home from work, but if I take to the dealer 40 miles away do I tow it or drive it?

[fpb111]

When was the last accessory drive belt change?

[roadsession]

hard to tell what you mean by groaning noise.

take a video upload to youtube with your phone

[dgjks6]

Tried a video with no luck. Could not hear squat.

Checked all the fluid and there is no power steering fluid. It is below cold on the dipstick. It was full last time I checked. But there is no fluid on the ground.

[dgjks6]

Ok added 1/2 quart and was too low. Added a little more and now way over full.

Anyway. Going to see how she does tomorrow then look for leaks.

If anyone wants to explain the brake/clutch/power steering hydraulic fluid tie in let me know. I have read a little about it so far and it seems that the brake and clutch share fluid, but so do the clutch and power steering fluid. And the brake and power steering have different fluid.

[dgjks6]

sweet smelling oily stuff on the garage floor. Front left. Thoughts?

[RFM]

Leaking steering rack/pipes can show such symptoms, you will have to look more closely. A 996 Carrera use power steering fluid only for the steering rack, not fore brakes and clutch. Only the Turbo version uses the same system for clutch assist.

[dgjks6]

Well, last week jacked up the car and saw the leak. Looked like the steering rack. I then debated about who to do it. I decided on the dealer. It is 40 minutes away and I have no time right now, so they brought me out a Cayenne S hybrid and took my car away. The confrimed the probem. $1200 is the estimate. Rack (reman with warranty), 3 hours labor, alignment, and tax. Just the convenience is worth it.