Power Steering Whine

[MichaelG]

I have a left hand drive 2007 new model Ford Galaxy and I live in a hot country.

For several months there has been a significant whine when starting the car which sometimes improves when the car has been driven for a while. It is related to the power steering which sometimes becomes very stiff when starting to drive.

My mechanic said that the Engine pulley needed replacing as it was slipping which was done at great expense but it made no difference. He then said that the power steering pump was faulty and needed replacing.

I took it to Ford who replaced the power steering fluid container - which had not effect at all and they also agreed that the power steering pump needed replacing.

Is this a known problem ? I am reluctant to spend alot more money than I have already spent on this problem if there is an alternative.

Thanks