Have you ever been driving in a low-traffic area and suddenly felt your car start to drift? Or have you ever driven in a high-traffic area and found it hard to keep your car straight because of the constantly turning wheels? This article will show you how to tell if you have variable assist power steering, and how to fix it if you do.
symptoms
If you have variable assist power steering, there are a few things that you may experience. The most common symptom is a loss of power when turning the wheel. Other symptoms may include difficulty maneuvering in tight spaces or difficulty accelerating or braking. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to take them to a mechanic for an evaluation.
testing
If your Jeep Cherokee has variable assist power steering, it can be difficult to tell if it’s working properly. A few simple tests can help you troubleshoot any issues.
First, try turning the wheel in all directions – both clockwise and counterclockwise. If the steering feels stiff or unresponsive, the variable assist power steering may not be functioning properly.
Second, position a straight edge against the wheel and turn the wheel while watching the straightedge. If the wheel moves too far from the straightedge, the variable assist power steering may not be working properly.
Finally, try turning the wheel in a complete circle with both hands. If the Jeep Cherokee’s variable assist power steering doesn’t smoothly transition from one direction to another, there may be an issue with its system.
remedies
If you experience a loss of power steering, there are a few remedies you can try.
One strategy is to increase the air pressure in your tires by pumping them up using a tire pump. This will help to distribute weight more evenly across the wheels and help to resist torque steer.
Another remedy is to replace the power steering hose if it’s cracked, kinked, or damaged. Hoses are cheap and easy to replace on your own, so it’s worth checking if yours is in need of repair before getting too frustrated with your car’s lack of power steering.
future considerations
As variable assist power steering (VAPS) technology continues to evolve and become more mainstream, carmakers are starting to contemplate the future implications of this technology. One question that is being asked is whether VAPS will eventually replace traditional power steering systems.
There are a few reasons why carmakers may choose to completely replace traditional power steering systems with VAPS. First, VAPS can provide a more responsive and customizable driving experience. This is because VAPS can change the level of assistance that is provided depending on the conditions on the road. Second, VAPS can be more energy efficient than traditional power steering systems. This is because VAPS does not require as much energy to operate, which can save on fuel costs.
However, there are also some potential drawbacks to using VAPS over traditional power steering systems. For one, VAPS may not be as reliable in extreme conditions, such as when the roads are wet or icy. Additionally, VAPS may require more time to get used to than traditional power steering systems.