Four problems related to power steering fluid have been reported for the 1999 Ford Taurus. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
I'll copy anothers post to reflect exactly the way I feel and my experience with this steering issue. . . Rack and pinion seal leaks fluid into the right hand boot and then the ground, causing the power steering not to function properly and failure to the power steering pump. I can't believe Ford doesn't care about the safty and loyalty of their customers and take steps to correct this consistant defect quite common in this model.
Upon starting vehicle consumer heard a noise. Consumer checked the power steering fluid level and found out that the level was low. Fluid was draining into the bellows, which was a rubber boot that protected the inner tie rod. Consumer determined that a snapped ring was missing from the bellows.
Vehicle experienced a loss of power steering fluid causing steering to be very stiff and hard to control. Refilled fluid and it was okay for approximately 100 miles, then got low again. Each time we filled it, it rapidly emptied, until we could not drive it more than 5-8 miles between refills. Mechanic found that both sides of the rack and pinion were leaking into the dust boots, which were full to capacity with power steering fluid. Whole rack and pinion unit had to be replaced. Ford would not pay for repair at 46k miles, so we paid out of pocket.
Power steering fluid is leaking. Dealer inspecting vehicle. Please provide further information.