Most people do not give much thought to the power steering fluid in their car, but potential problems with it can become very apparent in the split second it takes for your car to lose control. So, what are the basic things to check for when it comes to the power steering fluid in your car?
Low Fluid Level
A low fluid level in your car’s power steering can cause the steering to become very heavy when driving at low speed. Check the fluid level from time to time to ensure that it has not dropped below the minimum. If it has then fill up with the recommended fluid and check again to see if the level drops. If it does then there must be a leak somewhere in the system.
Contaminated Fluid
Power steering fluid that has gone bad typically appears as a dark brown colour and has a burnt smell. When power steering fluid has gone bad it is unable to perform its required functions. Bad power steering fluid can cause your car’s steering to become stiff and or jerky while turning. In extreme cases, bad power steering fluid can cause damage to your car’s power steering pump. In order to repair power steering fluid that has gone bad, the fluid will need to be drained from the system and then refilled with the correct type and amount of power steering fluid.
Fluid Leaks
A leak in the power steering system can lead to a puddle of reddish fluid on the ground in front of the car, or create a whining noise when turning the wheel. In the case of a hose leak, it may come loose from time to time and need to be retightened. However, any other leak in the system would need to be diagnosed by a specialist to locate the leak and repair as necessary.
Air in the System
If the steering feels loose or the wheel is slightly vibrating while you’re turning it, then there might be some air in the power steering system. Modern systems that use power steering automatically bleed after a few lock-to-lock turns but there are instances where some manual bleeding is required. Make sure you check for this as soon as possible before the problem worsens. More on power steering specialists can be found at https://westernpowersteering.co.uk/.
Early detection of fluid problems will help to keep your car’s steering fully operational and prevent more costly repairs in the future.
