The car power steering system is designed to reduce the amount of effort required by the driver by enabling the car wheels to turn with minimal pressure. However, the system, like any other system or component in your car, is prone to damage and malfunction. In that case, the power steering system will not work as efficiently as it should. And if left unrepaired, a minor fault can eventually lead to power steering failure.
Therefore, you must learn to identify the key signs of a failing car power steering system to prevent a potentially harmful situation. Here we have discussed types of power steering systems and a few common signs that indicate your car’s power steering wheel needs to be checked and fixed as soon as possible.
Types of Power Steering System
There are three types of power steering wheels, discussed below:
Hydraulic Power Steering
The Hydraulic power steering system uses an engine-driven steering pump that primarily provides hydraulic pressure to the system. It extracts mechanical energy from the engine and converts it into hydrostatic energy.
Electric Power Steering
The electric power steering system draws energy from the electrical system of the vehicle to facilitate easy steering.
Electric-Powered Hydraulic Steering
Combining the above two types, the electric-hydraulic steering system is driven by an electric motor that powers the hydraulic pump to assist smooth steering.
Key Signs of a Failing Car Power Steering System
Discussed here are some of the significant signs that reflect your failing steering wheel in a car:
Steering Wheel Becomes Hard
In case your steering wheel is stiff or rigid or doesn’t turn as smoothly as it did before, it’s very likely that your car power steering system is about to fail. This is the first noticeable sign and you must pay heed to.
Steering Wheel is Loose
Power-steering might cut down the pressure originally required to turn the wheels, but it shouldn’t be loose. A loosened steering wheel will feel disconnected and will rotate very easily, like almost slipping out of the driver’s hands. If you notice anything unusual like a shaking steering wheel, make it a priority to get it checked.
Slow Response
A failing car power steering system would take time to respond, particularly when turning a corner. If you notice this fault, you can save it before it gets too big by getting the power steering checked by a professional on time.
Unusual, Faulty Noises
Another significant sign of a failing power steering system is the onset of weird noises. Always make sure you check your power steering immediately upon hearing whining or squealing noises when making a turn.
The vehicle would squeal when it starts or when you take a sharp turn. This sound comes from the hood and indicates a bad power-steering system.
Similarly, the “whining” noise comes particularly when you turn, and is always the cause of dried-up fluid level. If the leaked pump drains for too long, the whole power steering system can be damaged.
The “groaning” noise is the last indicator of a failed power steering system, often arising in worst-case scenarios when the system has almost failed. This noise is caused due to deficient power steering fluid level that may damage other vehicle parts as well.
Therefore, pay attention to any unusual noises you hear when driving.
Low Levels of Power Steering Fluid
Low fluid levels, be it engine oil, coolant, braking fluid, or a steering oil, can bring extensive damage to your vehicle. If you find a puddle where your car is parked, know that it is always a leaked braking fluid or engine oil. Steering fluid is vital for your car’s performance. Having a low level of power steering fluid will lower the pressure and overtax the power steering system.
Do regular check-ups on the power steering fluid reservoir, including its adequate levels and examining hidden leakages. We have a variety of bikes that are maintained in the best condition possible. If you’re getting your own bike, don’t forget to fuel it!
Change in Color of Fluid
The power steering fluid is red or reddish-brown in colour. If you notice the original colour changed, such as to grey with metal flakes, get a mechanic to inspect the car power steering system. This change in colour is another key indicator that your vehicle has a faulty steering pump causing the oxidation in the fluid.
Smell of Burning Oil
Another key sign of a failing power steering system is a smell of burning oil, which comes out due to the fluid reaching an overheating part of the engine. This happens due to the oil leakage. Not only does this represent a faulty power steering failure, it may also cause a fire. To avoid these harmful conditions, turn off your car and call the mechanic as soon as you sense a burning smell.
FAQs
Can I Drive with a Failed Power Steering?
It is not advisable. Driving with a failed power steering for a long time will make your steering wheel become exponentially difficult to turn.
What Should I Do if Power Steering Fails While Driving?
In case of power steering wheel failure, always try to get to the safe side of the road. The steering wheel might be difficult to control. Don’t push too hard on the brakes or you may lose control. Turn on the hazard lights to let other drivers know that there is a mechanical problem.
These key indicators of a probable faulty car power steering system may help save you from a troublesome situation. Not only would you cut down the hassle, but you can also prevent road accidents. Also, it is worth noting that you can use steering wheel locks, that’s installed in many automobiles as a safety feature.
In case your automobile’s power steering system has completely failed and cannot be fixed, you may consider buying another car. A large number of used cars in the UAE are up for sale on dubizzle that feature power steering systems.
You can easily get your favourite make and model at an affordable price. However, if your power steering pump just needs to be replaced, you can easily buy it along with other auto parts and accessories from dubizzle.
Stay tuned to the UAE’s top car blog for more on car parts and repairs.
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