Power steering is an integral feature in modern vehicles that greatly enhances the driving experience by making it easier to turn the steering wheel.

When it’s functioning as it should, it’s easy to take for granted—but when the system starts having issues, it immediately becomes clear just how vital power steering is for safe, comfortable driving! For this reason, it’s important to learn the signs of power steering issues, so you can address them before they cause hazardous driving conditions.  

Understanding the Power Steering System

The power steering system is designed to significantly reduce the physical effort required to turn the steering wheel while allowing for smoother, more responsive steering. Much like the braking system, most power steering systems operate on hydraulic principles and uses a specialized fluid to function. In addition to the steering wheel and power steering fluid, the hydraulic power steering system also includes:

• Power Steering Pump: The power steering pump generates the hydraulic pressure needed to assist in steering. It is driven by the vehicle’s engine via a belt and pulley system.
• Steering Rack or Gearbox: This component converts the rotational movement of the steering wheel into the linear motion needed to turn the wheels. In a hydraulic power steering system, the rack or gearbox uses the hydraulic pressure supplied by the pump to ease the steering effort.
• Hoses and Lines: The hoses and lines carry the power steering fluid between the pump, the steering rack or gearbox, and the fluid reservoir.
• Fluid Reservoir: The fluid reservoir houses the power steering fluid.

When you turn the steering wheel, the pump directs the power steering fluid to the appropriate side of the steering rack or gearbox. This action provides a boost to the steering mechanism, making it easier to turn the wheels. The amount of assistance provided is adjusted based on the speed of the vehicle—you receive more assistance at lower speeds for easier maneuvering and less at higher speeds for better control.

Common Power Steering System Issues

As with other systems in your vehicle, power steering systems require regular inspections and maintenance to continue performing at their best—otherwise, they can start to develop issues, like:

• Low power steering fluid: One of the most frequent problems with power steering systems is low fluid levels, which typically cause jerky steering movements, noises from the power steering pump, and increasing difficulty in turning the wheel. These symptoms occur because the hydraulic system relies on a specific amount of fluid pressure, which decreases as fluid levels drop.
• Power Steering Pump Failure: The pump itself can also fail, which can lead to a complete loss of power steering. Warning signs to watch for include whining or grinding noises when turning and a tight or slow steering response. These indicate the pump’s internal components are wearing out and it’s on the verge of failure.
• Power Steering Rack & Pinion Unit Failure: The rack & pinion unit may also contribute to failures such as leaking seals or internal components can wear out. At times, internal seals can fail causing internal leakage that is not visible but will cause the hydraulic pressure to push against the requested steering direction resulting in difficult steering.

Preventing Power Steering Issues

To prevent issues with your power steering system, it’s important to monitor the fluid level. Not only can low fluid levels lead to the issues listed above, but it can eventually damage the power steering pump and other components.

Power steering fluid can also degrade over time. When this happens, it’s less effective and can potentially allow the system to become contaminated. Regularly inspecting the fluid for signs of degradation or contamination and topping up or replacing it as necessary is a simple but effective way to maintain the system.

In addition to fluid checks, you should also have the power steering pump, belts, and hoses inspected regularly for signs of wear or damage. Early detection of issues like leaks, cracks, or wear can prevent more significant (and expensive) problems down the line.

Trust Your Power Steering to Accurate Automotive Attention

At Accurate Automotive Attention, we know how vital a fully functional power steering system is for your safety and comfort. Our ASE-certified technicians are well-equipped to diagnose and repair any issues your power steering system may be having. We see most makes and models and stand firmly behind our repairs with a 3-year/36,000-mile nationwide warranty.

Accredited by the Better Business Bureau and voted Yuma’s Best Auto Repair 20 years in a row, you can always feel confident you’re receiving high-quality, reliable auto care. Contact us today in Central Yuma or The Foothills!

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