I have a 05 Tacoma when I start to turn the wheel it is getting more and more dificult. I feel like I lost my power steering it bucks and does not depend either right or left turn. I checked the steering fluid and tires. I noticed the ball joints cup feels empty.

Is it in 4wd? I feel the bucking when my truck is in 4wd on any surface with more traction than snow.

i just started having the same problem with my 05 tacoma. I replaced the belt also brought to my mechanic he checked the pump and rack they are all fine . he seems to think it may be electrical or part of the speed sensitive power steering . the faster you go the tighter it feels (less sensitive) this is happening when I go at any speed but is really noticable at slower speeds. Doesn't sound cheap to me.

there you see all problem related steering

thepartsbin.com/suspension-steering.html