The squealing sound is the power steering pump. It is low on fluid. It only gets low because of a leak in the system. That can be a small leak and over time the fluid gets too low in the pump for it to work. Or, it can be a large leak, or a ruptured hose, that looses fluid very quickly. Fill the pump or reservoir to the "full" mark, using the correct fluid, start it and see if the problem goes away. Then look for a leak under the front of the car while it is running. Have someone turn the wheel while looking under the car. If it is a large leak you will be able to see it and should have to have the car towed to a mechanic to repair it . You can also look at the ground where you normally park the car to see if there is an fluid spot. A ruptured hose or large leak that looses all the fluid, will cause you to loose power steering assist and then you can't steer the car. Be confident that the leak is small and the system will keep fluid long enough that will allow you the get to a mechanic. If you are not confident in that, HAVE THE CAR TOWED. YOU DON'T WANT TO LOOSE STEERING WHILE YOU ARE DRIVING!
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Gaker
actually you can steer the car its just harder to do so, but it will burn out your pump rather quickly if you loose all the fluid.
It depends on the type of steering as to wheather you can steer without the power assist. My Chevy rack and pinion can not be steered at all without the power assist.
Gaker
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Have you checked your power steering fluid and made sure your pump is not slipping on the belt?
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