1998 A6 1.8t se

recently steering has become heavy and intermitantly sticky, occasionally makes a noise as i turn when stationary.

told it could be the rack wearing, was wanting to change the steering fluid now think the pump could be on its way out. dont really want to replace anything but would love to know what it could be,

would changing the steering fluid help? is there anyhing i can grease up or do to prolong the life of the steering system?

Regards Rob