How to Fix a Malfunctioning Power Steering System

Does your steering wheel seem tighter than it should be, or is it more difficult to turn than in the past? One possibility is that the steering system is on the blink. Power steering helps to control the car; therefore when the steering is bad, it becomes difficult and dangerous to drive the car. Here is how you can remedy power steering problems so that you can have a safe car on the road:



Check and Refill Power Steering Fluid

The first basic solution that may be applied to power steering issues is the examination of the fluid level. When the power steering fluid is low one can experience difficulty in steering the car and hear some strange noises. First of all, find the power steering fluid container that is mounted under the hood. It is commonly identified and has a cap that reads “Power Steering.” Switch off your engine and unscrew the cap, then pull out the dipstick which will show you the level of the fluid. If it is below the minimum level, you will need to add more of the fluid.

It is recommended that you use the type of power steering fluid that is recommended by the manufacturer of your vehicle and which is indicated in the owner’s manual. Slowly add the fluid to the reservoir until it gets to the top level marked on the dipstick. Don’t fill it to capacity.

Inspect for Leaks

This is one of the main reasons why there are so many complaints of power steering failure. If your vehicle is losing fluid, you must try to locate where the fluid is coming from. Search for any signs of leakages of fluid around the power steering pump, hoses, and the steering rack. Sometimes you might find wet patches or even a pool of fluid beneath your car. A leaking hose or pump will require replacement in order to stop the problem of leakage. If you detect a small hole in the hose, you can use a power steering stop leak product to seal it. However, this is not a permanent fix and you should have the hose replaced as soon as possible.

Power Steering Must Be Bled

The presence of air in the power steering lines causes jerking or vibrating of the steering. Bleeding the system expels trapped air and brings normalcy to the functioning of the system. To begin with, use a jack to raise the front side of your car and then proceed to support it with jack stands.

With the engine switched off, move the steering wheel to the left to right and back repeatedly to push out air in the lines. Next, inspect the amount of fluid present and add some more of it if necessary. Start the engine and do it again and again until the steering is smooth and you do not see any air bubbles in the reservoir.

Check Power Steering Pump

The pump of the power steering plays an important role in ensuring that there is sufficient fluid pressure. If it is not functioning properly, then you may hear some whining noises or sometimes you may find it hard to steer. Make sure you examine the pump for any signs of damage or wear. When you experience a noisy pump, then this is a sign that it needs to be replaced. Replacing a power steering pump is one of the most complicated car fixes and may need the services of a mechanic. Even if you are a little conversant with car repairs, you should not attempt to replace the old pump with a new one no matter how easy it seems.

Check Steering Belt

One of the problems associated with a worn or cracked power steering belt is that it can lead to a faulty pump. This belt helps to join the pump to the engine and it enables the pump to run. To identify a bad belt, one has to look for cracks or any signs of wear on the belt. If the belt is loose, it may be slipping and this results in the failure of the pump. If the belt is in poor condition or damaged then it is required to be replaced with a new belt.

Bring Your Car To Our Professionals At Lancer Service

When your vehicle steering becomes difficult to operate, you should call the attention of a mechanic in St. Paul. At Lancer Service, we are here to provide expert assistance to car owners in St. Paul, MN, and nearby cities. We have been helping drivers in the area for more than 30 years and our ASE-certified mechanics are always available to help keep your car running smoothly.