If you own a car with power steering, then you know that it can be quite an intricate and delicate system. While most of the time it works perfectly, occasionally something will go wrong and power steering fluid will start leaking. In this article, we will discuss the different types of leaks and how to identify them, so that you can take the appropriate steps to fix them.
How Power Steering Fluid Works
Power steering fluid is a type of hydraulic fluid that is used to help move a car and the steering wheel. The fluid helps to turn the wheels by moving the car’s axles. Power steering fluid usually leaks from a number of places, but most often it leaks from the joint between the power steering pump and the gearbox.
Symptoms of a Power Steering Fluid Leak
When power steering fluid leaks, it can result in a number of strange and frustrating behaviors. Some common symptoms of a power steering fluid leak include:
-A loss of power or decreased steering control
-A decrease in engine performance
-A rough or juddering ride
-An unexplained smell or appearance of smoke
How to Fix a Power Steering Fluid Leak
If your power steering is leaking, you may be able to fix the issue yourself. Follow these steps to repair a power steering fluid leak:
1. Check for and replace any cracked or broken hoses or connections.
2. Clean all the components involved in the power steering system with a degreaser and a brush. Use caution not to contaminate the system with grease or oil.
3. Pour new power steering fluid into the system, filling it up to the top of the filler cap. Replace any seals that may have deteriorated.
4. Reattach all hoses and connections, checking them for leaks before doing so. Start the engine and check for proper operation.
Conclusion
If you’re having trouble getting your car to start, it might be time to check the power steering fluid. This fluid helps turn the wheel and keep the car moving in a straight line. If there is too much or too little of this fluid, it can cause problems with starting the car. In some cases, power steering fluid leaks from the hoses that connect the pump motor to the gearbox (the part of the engine that turns the wheels). Other times, power steering fluid leaks from joints between parts of the gearbox or from connections between different types of pipes.