If you’re like most drivers, you’re probably familiar with the scenario where your power steering pump goes out. This happens when the power steering fluid leaks or a seal ruptures, and as a result, your car’s steering becomes difficult to control. In this article, we’ll discuss what you can do to fix your car if this happens, and how to prevent it from happening in the first place.
What to do if Power Steering Pump Goes Out
If you’re driving a car with power steering, you’ll need to know what to do if the pump goes out. If the power steering pump goes out, the car will be difficult to steer and will likely require a tow truck to get it moving. Here are some steps that you can take to try and fix the problem without getting towed:
1. Try turning the wheel manually. If you can’t turn the wheel manually, your car may have lost its hydraulic pressure and you’ll need to replace the power steering pump.
2. Validate your level of fluid in the system. You can check your level of fluid by looking for a dipstick or probe near the idler arm on the front of the engine. The level should be between 2/3 and 3/4 full. If it’s below 2/3 or above 3/4 full, you’ll need to refill the system.
3. Check for contamination. Make sure there is no debris or moisture inside the system. This could block your pump or cause other problems down the line.
4. Replace any worn or damaged parts in the system. This includes things like hoses, connectors, and valves.
How to Replace Power Steering Pump
If you’ve ever had to replace a power steering pump, then you know just how frustrating it can be. In this article, we’ll show you how to replace the pump on your own without having to take your car to a mechanic.
Tools You’ll Need:
-Jack and lug wrench
-Socket set
-Breaker bar
-Hose clamp
-Air compressor
-Jumper cables
-New power steering pump (if needed)
Step One: Remove the Wheel Lug Nuts.
Remove the four wheel lug nuts using a jack and lug wrench. Make sure the tires are properly inflated before doing this as the added weight could cause damage to the suspension. Once the lug nuts are loose, use a socket set to remove them.
Step Two: Disconnect the Brake Lines.
Disconnect both of the brake lines by pushing down on each end of the line while pulling up on the connector. Make sure to keep track of which line goes where as you will need it later.
What to do if Power Steering Fluid Leaks
If you find yourself in a situation where power steering fluid is leaking from your car, there are a few things you can do to try and fix the problem. The first thing you should do is to take a look at the power steering pump to see if it’s broken. If it seems like the pump is simply broken, then you’ll need to replace it. However, if the pump appears to be damaged or missing parts, then you’ll need to take more drastic measures. In this case, you’ll likely need to replace the entire steering system.
How to Test Power Steering System
If your car has power steering, it’s important to test the system periodically to ensure that it is functioning properly. Here’s how to do it:
1. Park your car in a safe location and turn off the ignition.
2. Remove the cap from the power steering fluid reservoir (usually located on the driver’s side of the vehicle). Fill the reservoir with clean power steering fluid until the level is about half-way up.
3. Connect a voltmeter to the power steering system harness connector on your car and plug in the adapter. Turn on your car and check for voltage readings at both connectors. The reading should be around 12 volts. If it’s not, check your wiring and connections, and replace any components that are weak or corroded.