If you’ve been noticing a weird smell coming from your car, there’s a good chance that a power steering fluid leak is to blame. A power steering fluid leak can cause your car to feel like it’s going off the road, and it can also make the engine work harder than necessary. So if you’re experiencing any of these signs, it’s time to take your car in for repairs.
What is a power steering fluid leak?
A power steering fluid leak can be a serious issue if not fixed quickly. A power steering fluid leak can result in reduced steering ability, decreased fuel economy, and even an accident. In some cases, a power steering fluid leak can actually cause the vehicle to stall. If you notice a power steering fluid leak, contact your vehicle’s manufacturer immediately for repairs.
Causes of a power steering fluid leak
A power steering fluid leak can be either small or large, but it is always serious. A small power steering fluid leak can cause a loss of power and could even result in a car crash. A large power steering fluid leak could contaminate the engine and cause a fire.
There are many causes of a power steering fluid leak, but the most common are:
-A worn or broken belt: The belt helps to convey power from the engine to the wheel, and if it’s not correctly fitted or worn, it can rubbing against the pulley, causing a power steering fluid leak.
-A defective seal: seals between the pump and the reservoir can become faulty, allowing liquid to escape.
-A crack in the hanger: this is where the belt connects to the transmission and can easily become damaged due to rust or wear.
-A dirty or clogged filter: if liquid doesn’t have time to drain properly from the system, debris can build up over time and create a clog.
How to find and fix a power steering fluid leak
Any time a car loses power, it’s important to inspect the power steering system for any signs of damage. If you see any fluid leaks from the power steering system, be sure to take action right away.
If the power steering system is damaged, it may not be able to expel fluids properly and may start leaking. Signs of a damaged power steering system include:
-Power steering is difficult to turn or seems “jumpy”
-Power steering fluid appears on the ground around the car
-There is a strong smell of fluid (like burned oil) coming from the car
Conclusion
If you’re noticing an increase in power steering fluid leakage, it’s important to take action right away. A power steering fluid leak can be very dangerous and can lead to a lot of problems down the road. If you notice any signs of a power steering fluid leak, like white smoke coming out of your exhaust or your vehicle shaking excessively when you drive, it’s definitely time to get your car serviced and fixed up as soon as possible.