Ensure the safety of your passengers, get your power steering serviced!
A power steering system helps the driver turn the wheels using hydraulic or electric power (or both). The system helps to make turning a vehicle much easier than it would be otherwise and with minimal effect on a vehicle’s handling.
A typical hydraulic steering system includes many parts that work together, including an engine-driven hydraulic pump, a control valve, steering cylinder, and connecting hydraulic hoses.
The most important part of this system is the power steering pump. When you turn the steering wheel, the power steering pump sends hydraulic fluid to the steering gear which applies the pressure needed to turn the wheels.
If the fluid in the power steering pump gets too low, it will operate inefficiently and circulate metal particles which can damage other components. When this is left unserviced for too long, the pump may fail, and you may find yourself driving with unassisted steering which is very unsafe!
When there is any type of issue with the power steering system, you will notice it immediately in the handling of your vehicle.
The most common signs of a power steering issue are:
- Steering wheel is stiff or slow to respond.
- A groaning or whining noise when you turn the steering wheel.
- Finding clear or red power steering fluid underneath your car.
- Squealing when the car starts .
Proper servicing involves:
- Emptying the power steering reservoir and filling with new fluid .
- Draining the power steering system and cleaning residual fluid.
- Check for any leaks.
- Check for worn, cracked, or loose hoses.
