When your car’s power steering feels mushy, it’s time to take a look at the fluid levels and see if you need to add more. But what if you don’t have the time or inclination to do all that work yourself? Or what if you don’t have the right tools?
What Is Power Steering?
Power steering is a system that helps a vehicle navigate its surroundings by providing assistance with turning the wheels. This system uses hydraulic fluid and hydraulic pressure to move the steering wheel. Power steering can get gunked up over time, which can result in decreased steering ability or even failure. If you’re having trouble turning your car, it’s worth checking for power steering issues.
Causes of Power Steering Problems
Too much power steering fluid can cause a power steering problem. Over time, the power steering fluid will become contaminated with dirt, gravel, and other debris. This will clog the power steering pump and make it difficult to turn the wheels. Power steering fluid should be checked regularly and replaced as needed.
Other causes of power steering problems include worn or broken parts on the power steering system, a leaky or damaged pump, or a bad Serpentine Belt. If you notice any of these signs of trouble, it’s important to take your car in for repairs as soon as possible.
How to Fix a Power steering Problem
If you are experiencing a power steering issue, there is a good chance that it can be fixed relatively easily. Here are some steps to take to fix the issue:
1. Check your fluid levels and replace as needed. Power steering requires both hydraulic and oil pressure to function properly, so it is important to make sure both are at optimal levels. If your fluid level is low, the pump will struggle to produce enough pressure, causing the steering to feel clunky or inaccurate.
2. Clean and lube the drive shaft. This area can become caked with debris over time, which can cause resistance when turning the wheel. Cleaning it will help reduce friction and improve mobility.
3. Check for loose or damaged components. A power steering system relies on a variety of different parts in order to work smoothly. If any of these components are not functioning properly, it will cause the system to fail altogether. Check for kinks or cracks in hoses, broken flex hoses, and other areas where leaks may occur. If necessary, replace any damaged components as soon as possible to restore proper functionality
Conclusion
If you’re experiencing a loss of power steering, it’s important to know how much work your car needs in order to fix the issue. Steering issues can be caused by many things, from worn and torn parts inside your steering system to clogged or dirty filters. In some cases, simply replacing the power steering fluid may be all that is necessary to get your car back on the road. If you think your car might require more extensive repairs, however, don’t hesitate to take it in for a diagnosis.