Steer Me Right! (Failing Power Steering Hose)
February 20, 2022
Most drivers love how easy it is to turn their vehicles, and they have power steering to thank. Engineers have figured out a way to take some of your engine's power to help you turn. Without it, steering can be quite a chore. New power systems are electric, but there are still plenty of the older hydraulic power steering systems out there, and it's wise to keep them working the way they should so you don't find yourself stranded without power steering.
Those hydraulic power systems use a fluid under pressure that is pumped to a device that helps you turn your wheels more easily. It's that pressure that presents the challenge. After your vehicle's seen a few years on the road, you may find your steering isn't quite as easy as it was. You may hear a groaning or humming sound when you turn.
One component that can fail is the pressure hose that carries that fluid from the power steering pump to that turning assist mechanism. The hose is made of rubber and can leak, crack, get damaged by heat and debris or just get too old. If yours is ten years old or older, it's likely getting close to the end of its life.
If you think you can just wait until it fails completely, think of these possible consequences. If the hose or a coupling fails, power steering fluid can blow all over the hot engine. That fluid is flammable and can start a fire. Or if you've been driving for a few weeks with low power steering fluid, that could ruin your power steering pump. Replacing the pump is an extra expense you can probably live without.
A technician will replace the necessary parts and make sure air and contaminants are bled or flushed from the system. Then, he or she will check for leaks. Just think how important a properly working power steering system is for safe operation of your vehicle. Make sure you keep yours in top shape for your safety's sake and the safety of others on the road around you.
Tire Warehouse Depot
250 N. Lapeer Rd.
Lake Orion, Michigan 48362
248-929-0699
Need Service?
More articles from Tire Warehouse Depot
Full of Hot Air (Air Conditioning)
November 17, 2024
In warm weather, you want to be in a cool vehicle. When we're talking cool, we don't mean stylish or trendy, but cool as in not sweltering inside. And if your vehicle's air conditioner stops working correctly, it seems to always break at the worst timeduring a heat wave. Automotive air conditio... More
Alleviate the Creaks and Squeaks (Chassis Lubrication)
November 10, 2024
If your vehicle creaks and squeaks when you drive down the road, it may mean that some of the metal parts are rubbing against each other and need to be lubricated. Those could be parts of the suspension, steering system and the drivetrain. Years ago, most vehicles had to have their chassis (wha... More
(Timing Belt)
November 3, 2024
You may have heard about an important part of your vehicle's engine called a timing belt, and many know that if that belt breaks, it can cause some very serious engine problems. Not all vehicles have them, and the ones that do generally have smaller engines. The timing belt keeps the engine sy... More