Your vehicle’s power steering will be directly affected by a faulty power steering pump because there won’t be power steering fluid in the system. The power steering pump is responsible for pumping the fluid through the system. Central Auto Care advises that the following four signs indicate that your automobile might need a new power steering pump. It’s important that you get this fixed as soon as possible; otherwise, you may find it difficult to control your car, truck, or utility vehicle.
1. Strange Sounds When You Turn the Wheel
There are two specific sounds that you will hear if your power steering pump is going bad. The most common of the two sounds is groaning. As you turn your steering wheel, your vehicle will groan as if you are hurting it. Another sound you might hear is a whining sound. This, too, happens when you turn the steering wheel. It’s important to have these sounds investigated as soon as possible to make sure you don’t lose your steering altogether.
2. A Lag in Your Vehicle’s Response
One thing that can happen as the problem gets worse is your vehicle will lag in responding to your steering commands. This can make driving dangerous. You may turn the steering wheel to make a right turn, but your vehicle will go straight instead or barely make the turn. You will continue to have difficulties navigating your automobile until you have the steering pump replaced.
3. Stiffness in the Steering Wheel
Because the steering system doesn’t have any power steering fluid in it due to the faulty power steering pump, you may also notice that your steering wheel feels very stiff when you try to use it. In fact, many people describe the sensation as if they were driving an automobile with manual steering. A stiff steering wheel can be attributed to a malfunctioning power steering pump or low power steering fluid.
4. Squealing Sounds When You Start Your Car
Finally, this fourth sign applies more to the belt to which the power steering pump is attached. Still, a problem with your vehicle’s accessory belt cannot only affect your power steering pump but also other components in the engine, including the alternator and water pump. If you hear a loud squealing noise in your engine when you first fire up your automobile, the accessory belt needs to be tightened.
We can do that here at Central Auto Care in Okotoks, AB. We can also replace your power steering pump. Call us today if you are having problems with your power steering.