Facing difficulty turning a car’s steering wheel can be serious trouble for a driver. As a car user, you might be well aware that the steering wheel is one of the most vital components of a car, and therefore when it fails, the car’s overall performance and safety both get affected.
Apart from the steering wheel becoming hard to turn, there are several symptoms that you may encounter when it faces an issue. This blog discusses all those warning signs and the reasons behind them to give you a complete understanding of when you should take your car for a quality steering repair.
What are the warning signs of a malfunctioning steering wheel?
Like every car component, the steering wheel also sends vital signs indicating a serious issue.
Difficulty in turning the wheel
It is one of the most common problems associated with power steering installed in most modern cars.
Steering wheel vibration
Though it is mostly associated with wheel alignment issues, steering wheel vibration can result from contaminants in the system.
Looseness in the steering wheel
This sign is a result of worn steering racks.
Steering wheel slipping
The steering wheel may get slipped whenever you try to hold it in a turned position or turn it.
Vehicle wandering
This sign is usually associated with worn steering gear.
Grinding noise
If you hear grinding noise whenever you turn the wheel, it indicates a steering wheel problem.
Screeching noise
You may also hear screeching noise while turning the wheel. This noise is usually caused by a worn or loose power steering belt.
If you notice these issues at any time, do not waste a minute and take your car to an auto steering shop to get the problem fixed.
What are the key reasons behind a faulty steering wheel?
It is also important to know the main reasons behind a failing steering wheel as a car user.
Low power steering fluid
The power steering fluid lubricates the power steering pump and transmits the pressure throughout the whole system smoothly. When the fluid level becomes low, it makes the stiff steering wheel stiff. Usually, it occurs when the fluid leaks from the pressurised hose area. Even though refilling the fluid serves as a temporary solution, you must hire a professional mechanic to find the exact reason behind the disappearing power steering fluid.
Thick power steering fluid
Power steering fluid can also become thick when used over a long period. A thickened fluid is incapable of lubricating the wheel pump and can easily make the steering wheel stiff and hard to turn. To avoid problems, you may follow your car manufacturer’s recommendation on the frequency of changing the steering fluid.
Damaged power steering belt
Power steering belts can easily develop cracks, get loosened or broken compared to other car parts. As the belt plays a vital role in operating the power steering system, any significant damage makes the system unable to operate.
Faulty steering rack
The steering rack is composed of the rack and pinion and is also a key component of the car’s steering. The pinion is a series of shafts and U-joints that keeps the steering rack attached to the wheel. Because of daily use, the steering racks develop damages over time. The steering wheel becomes highly stiff to handle whenever such damage takes place.
The stiffness may reduce if you continue driving your car as it makes the steering rack hotter, thus causing the lubricant to work a little better. However, you must take your vehicle to a car repair shop in Perth and get the rack replaced before it becomes too serious.
Low tyre pressure
While the reason behind a heavy steering is a malfunctioning power steering system, low tyre pressure can also be a major contributing factor. Usually, deflated tyres and improper tyre pressure lead to this problem. So, make sure your car tyres are inflated according to the recommended standard.
Consult the best mechanic to fix the issue
If you find it hard to handle your car’s steering, you must seek help from a mechanic with proper certification. A licensed mechanic will first examine the entire power steering system to find out what exactly has happened in your car. Issues like broken power steering belts or low or thick power steering fluid can be easily repaired, but other major problems like a worn steering rack may involve complications. A reputed car service provider can provide any service, regardless of the problem.
Car Service Perth is one of the leading car repair shops that has made a reputation in this field over a long period. Whenever you need a steering repair service, you can contact the company’s expert team and book your service package. We will examine the condition of the steering system and recommend the best possible solution. Apart from calling us, you can also visit our workshop.
