Most people have no idea what power steering is or what it does. All they know is that when it goes out, their car becomes very difficult to turn. In this article, we’ll explain what power steering does and what you should do if yours goes out.
What is Power Steering and how does it Work?
Power steering is a system that assists in steering a vehicle. The system uses hydraulic fluid to power a pump, which in turn applies pressure to the steering system. This pressure assists in turning the wheels of the vehicle.
When power steering goes out, it can be difficult to steer the vehicle. The pump is no longer providing assistance, and the driver may have to use more force to turn the wheel. This can be dangerous, especially at high speeds or in tight turns. It is important to get power steering repaired as soon as possible if it goes out.
What are the Symptoms of a Power Steering Failure?
A power steering failure can be difficult to diagnose because it can have many symptoms. One of the most common symptoms is a loss of steering response. This can make driving difficult, especially at high speeds. Other symptoms can include a grinding noise when turning the wheel, a whining noise from the power steering pump, and leaking fluid from the power steering system. If you suspect that your power steering system is failing, it’s important to have it checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible.
What Causes Power Steering Failure?
One of the most common causes of power steering failure is a leak in the system. Over time, seals and hoses can wear out and allow fluid to escape. This can happen gradually or suddenly, and will usually result in decreased steering performance.
Other causes of power steering failure include a broken pump, belt, or pulley; leaks in the lines or reservoir; and electrical problems. Sometimes, air can get into the system and cause it to malfunction.
If your power steering fails, you’ll probably notice immediately. The steering will feel heavy and difficult to turn. You may also hear strange noises coming from under the hood. If this happens, pull over safely and call for roadside assistance.
How to Fix Power Steering Failure
When your power steering goes out, it can be a scary experience. The steering wheel can become very hard to turn, making it difficult to control your vehicle. If this happens to you, don’t panic. There are some things you can do to fix the problem.
First, try turning off your engine and restarting it. This may reset the power steering system and allow you to regain control of the steering wheel. If that doesn’t work, try turning on your hazard lights and slowly pulling over to the side of the road. Once you’re safely off the road, call a tow truck or a friend with a tow truck to come and help you.
If you’re stuck on the side of the road, there are some things you can do to make the wait more bearable. First, make sure you’re in a safe spot. Then, call for help and stay on the phone with them until they arrive. Finally, stay calm and wait for help to arrive.
Conclusion
When your power steering goes out, you’ll notice a significant decrease in the amount of control you have over your vehicle. You may find yourself having to put more effort into turning the wheel, and parking or making tight turns may become more difficult. If you’re driving at high speeds, losing power steering can be especially dangerous. If you find yourself in this situation, it’s important to pull over as soon as possible and call for help.