The power steering on my 06 EX-V6 (8,000 miles) whines the first few minutes after starting the car. The whining, which started about 6 weeks ago, gets louder as I turn the wheel. When the car warms up, it stops whining. Since I first owned the car in October 05, the only time I ever heard the whining was on very cold (sub 32 F) mornings. It now whines even when its 80 F.
I noticed today that the power steering fluid is below the low level line. Could the low fluid level cause the noise? If so, why would the noise go away after a few minutes?
If fluid has leaked out, where did it go? I have not seen any spots under my car. Do I have to go to the dealer to get the fluid or can I buy the proper fluid at any auto supply store?