Replace Power Steering At 214,000

[MTaco2013]

Hi everyone.

I have a 2001 Lexus RX300 with 214,000 miles on it. We replaced all the belts on it at 200,000 miles. At that point, the lights for my power steering belt came on, but the car ran great and we assumed that it was because of doing the work ourselves. About a year later, I began to hear a squeaking noise when I started my car. At first it was just for a second and I didn't think much of it. It has gotten progressively worse. When we examined the car, it appeared that the power steering belt was loose. We tightened it, but the squeaking continued (maybe because of a bearing?) Then, my power steering began to go out. Finally, it went out completely. From what I understand, I might need to replace the entire power steering apparatus. Has anyone had to deal with this? Am I missing something or am I going to have to replace my power steering? Would using an aftermarket belt cause this much trouble? Any advice you could offer would be great!

Thanks

--MTaco

[lenore]

Its possible that maybe just the pump is bad...