It’s definitely the pump, it’s got all new belts on there and there’s no sign or sound of slippage or at least there isn’t now it’s got new belts.

The original was a complete failure, although it had been giving symptoms of hard/soft steering for a time. Once rebuilt it was better but seemed to need revs to create pressure which led me to suspect it’s worn inside. The used replacement was better but it was still making sucking noises despite proper bleeding. I may try rebuilding this one as I have enough spare seals but as I’m planning to keep the car for the long term I’m happy to spend the right money on it if needs be, but obviously if I can avoid paying out £500 then I will! The top low pressure o-ring also didn’t fix the issue, another ‘known’ common point to go.

Its currently 16 years old and on c100k miles. From what I’ve heard these pumps are definitely beginning to fail more often, either through age or higher miles, or a combination of both. That’s from several guys I know in the states as well as Impo Car Parts who were saying they’ve been selling a lot more rebuild kits recently where Subaru offer them (they don’t for 03+)