Power steering is an important safety feature in modern cars, making it easier to turn the wheel at low speeds. If your power steering isn’t working, it can make driving your car a difficult and dangerous task. In this article, we’ll explain the most common reasons why power steering might not be working in your car.
What is power steering?
Power steering is a system in a vehicle that helps the driver steer by using hydraulic fluid. The system makes it easier to turn the wheel, especially at lower speeds. When the power steering system is not working, it can be difficult to steer the vehicle. There are a few reasons why power steering may not be working properly.
One reason power steering may not be working is because there is a leak in the system. A leak can cause the hydraulic fluid to escape, which will make it difficult to steer the vehicle. Another reason power steering may not be working is because the pump is not working properly. The pump is responsible for moving the hydraulic fluid through the system. If the pump is not working, the fluid will not be able to move and the power steering will not work.
If you are having trouble with your power steering, it is important to take your vehicle to a mechanic so they can diagnose the problem. Once they know what is causing the problem, they will be able to fix it and get your power steering working properly again.
How does power steering work?
Assuming you have a basic understanding of how your car works, here’s a quick rundown of how power steering works. Power steering is a system that helps you turn your wheel with less effort. It does this by using hydraulic fluid to assist the motion of the wheel.
There are two types of power steering systems: hydraulic and electric. Hydraulic power steering uses fluid to help turn the wheel, while electric power steering uses an electric motor to assist in turning the wheel.
If your power steering isn’t working, it’s likely due to a problem with your power steering fluid, pump, or belt. You can check your power steering fluid level to see if it needs to be topped off. If your power steering pump is making noise, it may need to be replaced. And finally, if your power steering belt is loose or damaged, it will need to be replaced.
Common causes of power steering problems
If your power steering isn’t working properly, there are a few common causes that you should check. First, make sure that there is enough power steering fluid in the system. If the fluid level is low, it can cause the pump to work harder and eventually fail. Another common cause of power steering problems is a leak in the system. A leak can allow air to enter the system, which can cause the pump to cavitate and fail. Finally, a worn or damaged power steering pump can also cause problems. If the pump is leaking or making strange noises, it should be replaced.
How to diagnose power steering problems
If your power steering isn’t working, the first thing you should do is check the fluid level. If it’s low, top it off and see if that fixes the problem. If the fluid level is fine, then the next step is to check the power steering pump. Make sure there’s enough fluid in it and that the belt that drives the pump is tight and in good condition.
If those things all check out, then it’s time to take a closer look at the steering system itself. Check for any leaks in the lines or hoses and look for signs of wear or damage on any of the steering components. If everything looks okay there, then the problem could be with the power steering control valve.
Finally, if you’ve checked all of those things and you still can’t figure out why your power steering isn’t working, it’s time to take it to a mechanic or dealer and have them take a look at it.
How to fix power steering problems
If your power steering suddenly stops working, there are a few things you can do to try and fix the problem. First, check the power steering fluid level and top it off if necessary. If that doesn’t solve the problem, then you may need to bleed the power steering system to get rid of any air bubbles that may have formed. Finally, if neither of those solutions work, you’ll likely need to replace the power steering pump.
Conclusion
If your power steering isn’t working, it’s likely due to a problem with the power steering fluid, pump, or belt. You can check the fluid level and appearance to see if it needs to be replaced, and inspect the pump and belt for wear. If you’re still having trouble, take your car to a mechanic so they can diagnose the problem and get it fixed.