Responsible for steering the cars in the wanted direction, a steering wheel may develop certain problems. Due to the wear of the steering system components, you might notice a deterioration in the handling of your car’s steering wheel.
One such issue is the locking of the steering wheel while driving. The lack of steering wheel response is an alarming problem and must be inspected immediately. If left unsolved, it can cause major inconveniences.
That said, we have compiled a list of common reasons for the steering wheel getting locked while driving.
What Causes a Steering Wheel to Lock While Driving
The different types of steering wheels are designed with a safety feature that locks them under certain conditions. However, a locked steering wheel in mid-drive is an alarming problem. That said, we have put together a list of reasons for a locked steering wheel while driving.
Failure in Power Steering System
A major symptom of a failing power steering system is that it causes the steering wheel to get locked while driving with weird noises. A clogged filter overheats the steering pump and the fluid is not pumped around the system. It also causes fluid contamination.
Although the steering wheel would not lock up completely while driving, it would increase the steering effort. Moreover, if the steering power pump belt or the hose rupture malfunctions, it will cause a rapid loss of fluid. This will result in a locked steering wheel mid-drive.
Frequent and Sharp Turns
Making frequent sharp turns impacts the car’s transmission system. It causes the car’s engine to break down, locking the steering wheel in the aftermath. The sudden manoeuvre also causes the steering pump to get stuck, affecting the handling of the steering wheel while driving. To reduce the odds of such an incident, make slow turns that will prevent a frozen steering linkage.
Faulty Steering Column
A steering column transfers the power from the steering wheel to the front wheels. When the steering column becomes worn due to usage over time, it causes certain problems. You will notice rough handling of the steering wheel, an increase in the steering effort and the car pulling to one side.
Low Power Steering Fluid
If there is a lack of power steering fluid, it will cause the steering wheel to get locked during car motion. It can also occur if the power steering fluid is excessively dirty. Although the decline in such an essential car fluid is gradual, it will hinder the steering performance.
Another symptom of a low reservoir of power steering fluid is that the steering wheel becomes hard to turn. Therefore, it is important to change the steering fluid regularly to prevent any malfunction in the system.
These are the main reasons why the steering wheel gets locked while driving. If you happen to find yourself in a similar situation, grip the steering wheel firmly and move it back and forth. Brake gradually and pull your car away from the traffic slowly and safely. Also, don’t try to unlock the locked steering wheel by force.
That said, when facing such an issue, seek professional assistance at the earliest. Whether it is a steering column lockup or a low level of power steering fluid, a mechanic will help you diagnose these problems.
Also, if you’re facing similar problems in your car and want to opt for a new ride, sift through these used cars for sale in the UAE.
Stay connected to dubizzle’s auto blog for more information on different car parts and their working.
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