A power steering pump is a vital part of your car’s system, and if it’s not performing up to par, your driving experience will be severely hampered. In this article, we’ll take you through the different signs that your power steering pump may be in need of replacement, and give you some tips on how to diagnose and fix the issue.
What is a power steering pump?
A power steering pump is a device in a car that helps move the vehicle by changing the pressure and flow of fluid in the system. When the pump fails, the car will not move as easily or at all.
If you notice any of the following problems with your power steering, it may be time to have your pump replaced:
-Your car has a hard time turning in even moderate conditions
-Your car feels heavy when driving or braking
-You see bubbles or fluid coming out of the pump
When should you replace your power steering pump?
Replacing your power steering pump is a common maintenance task that should be done at least once a year, if not more frequently based on your driving habits. Here are four signs that your pump may need to be replaced:
1. Your steering feels clunky and unresponsive.
2. You notice drips or waterfalls from the steering wheel when you turn the wheel.
3. The power steering fluid level is low or nonexistent.
4. The pump has started making strange noises or emits an unusual smell.
How to test your power steering pump
If you are experiencing issues with your power steering, it is important to test your pump to see if it is bad. Testing your pump can be done in a few different ways, and is usually the most cost-effective way to determine if it is failing. Here are three methods you can use to test your power steering pump:
1. With the engine off, turn the wheel hard left and right several times. If the steering feels weak or doesn’t respond at all, the pump may be defective and should be replaced.
2. Open the hood and look for bubbles coming out of the pump’s discharge hose. If there are many bubbles, then the pump may be failing and should be replaced.
3. Connect a pressure gauge to the discharge line of the pump and let it run until it reaches a certain pressure (usually around 110 psi). If the pressure reading is lower than expected, then the pump may be failing and should be replaced.
How to replace your power steering pump
If you are experiencing problems with your power steering, it is time to replace your pump. Here we will outline the steps needed to replace your power steering pump.
Required Tools:
-Screwdriver
-Wrench set
-Socket set
-Paint or a sealant to protect surfaces
1. Park the vehicle on a level surface. Make sure all of the tires are off the ground.
2. Remove the battery cover. There are two Phillips screws located near the center of the cover. Remove both screws and then remove the cover.
3. Underneath the battery cover, locate and remove the power steering fluid reservoir cap. There are two clips that hold it in place, use a wrench to remove it. Once the cap is removed, release the pressure from the reservoir by pushing down on one side of it while rotating the cap on its axle. The fluid will now flow out of the reservoir and can be drained away by lowering the cap back into place and screwing it back in place using the two original screws. Do not forget to replace the cap once you have replaced the pump!
4. Remove four bolts (two on each side) that hold the power steering pump in place. The bolts are located near the front of the pump. Once the bolts are removed, the pump can be lifted out of the vehicle.
5. Inspect the impeller for damage and replace it if necessary. Clean the shaft and bearing surfaces with a solvent such as paint thinner before re-installing the pump.
6. Reinstall the power steering pump in reverse order of removal. Tighten all four bolts to 175 lb-ft (235 Nm).