Can you still steer without electric power steering?

Yes, you can still steer your vehicle without electric power steering, but it will require more physical effort and may be more challenging, especially at lower speeds. While power steering has become a standard feature in most modern cars, it is possible to operate a vehicle with manual or hydraulic steering systems.

Understanding Power Steering Systems

Power steering is a system that uses an electric or hydraulic pump to assist the driver in turning the vehicle's wheels. This system reduces the amount of physical effort required to steer the car, making it easier to maneuver, especially at low speeds or when parking. Without power steering, the driver would need to apply more force to the steering wheel to turn the wheels.

Steering Without Power Assistance

If your vehicle's power steering system fails or is not present, you can still steer the car, but it will require more physical effort. Here's what you can expect:

• Increased Steering Effort: Without power assistance, you'll need to apply more force to the steering wheel to turn the wheels, especially at low speeds or when parking.


• Reduced Responsiveness: The steering may feel heavier and less responsive, making it more difficult to make quick, precise turns.


• Increased Muscle Fatigue: Steering the vehicle without power assistance can be physically demanding, especially during extended driving or in tight maneuvers.


• Potential Safety Concerns: Reduced steering responsiveness and increased physical effort may make the vehicle more challenging to control, particularly in emergency situations or at higher speeds.

It's important to note that while it is possible to drive without power steering, it is generally not recommended for extended periods, as it can be physically taxing and may compromise the vehicle's handling and safety.

Maintaining Control and Safety

If your vehicle's power steering system fails, it's crucial to exercise caution and adjust your driving style accordingly. Here are some tips to help maintain control and safety:

• Slow Down: Reduce your speed, especially when making turns or navigating tight spaces, to minimize the physical effort required to steer the vehicle.


• Anticipate Turns: Plan your turns and maneuvers well in advance, allowing more time to apply the necessary steering input.


• Use Both Hands: Keep both hands firmly on the steering wheel to maximize your control and leverage.


• Avoid Sudden Movements: Make smooth, gradual steering inputs to avoid sudden, jerky movements that could be more difficult to control.


• Consider Alternate Routes: If possible, choose routes that minimize the need for tight turns or frequent maneuvering, which can be more challenging without power steering.

While driving without power steering can be more physically demanding, it is possible to maintain control and safety with the proper techniques and adjustments to your driving style.

Can I drive without electric power steering?

Yes, its fine to drive without the power steering working. Manual steering feels really heavy at first, but you get used to it. FWIW, in the 50's and 60's, power steering was optional, and many cars, even the really big full -size cars all came with manual steering on their base models.

How hard is it to steer a car without power steering?

Driving without power steering is hard, especially at low speeds, and can be a workout for the driver. While older cars were designed for manual steering, a modern car with a failed power steering system will be very difficult to maneuver at low speeds or while parking, requiring significant physical force to turn the wheel. On the other hand, a car originally built without power steering will have a different steering gear ratio, making it easier to turn at lower speeds than a failed modern system. 
This video demonstrates the difference in steering effort between a car with and without power steering: 1mRex HYouTube · Aug 20, 2018
Key differences

• When it's difficult: The primary difficulty is at low speeds and when the car is stationary, such as when parking or making a U-turn. You will need to use a lot of force, potentially with both hands, to turn the wheel. 
• When it's easier: At highway speeds, the difference is less noticeable because the vehicle's momentum helps with steering. 
• Original vs. failed power steering: Cars originally designed without power steering have a mechanical advantage built into their steering system, making them much easier to steer than a modern car that has lost its power assist. 

Tips for driving without power steering

• Keep moving: The best technique is to avoid trying to turn the wheels when completely stopped. Start turning just before you come to a stop and continue as you start moving again. 
• Use proper technique: Get the car moving slowly and steer, as the wheels' rotation will make it easier to turn the wheel than when stationary. 
• Be aware of vehicle weight: Larger and heavier vehicles, like SUVs or trucks, will be significantly harder to steer without power assistance. 
• Ensure tires are properly inflated: Low or flat tires can make steering much harder, so check tire pressure before driving. 
• Be cautious: Drive more slowly and cautiously, and be prepared to apply extra force with both hands. 

This video explains how to manage driving a car without power steering in an emergency situation: 59sDespair RepairYouTube · Nov 17, 2025

What's the difference between electric power steering and regular power steering?

Electric power steering systems are simple. Hydraulic power steering systems tend to be heavier than electrical systems. Hydraulic power steering systems require hydraulic fluid, which must be changed from time to time. Electrical systems don't use any fluid, so you don't have to do as much maintenance.

Can you steer if electric power steering goes out?

Yes -- nearly all cars can still be steered after power steering fails, but effort, feel, and required technique change significantly depending on the system and speed. Steering effort increases: without hydraulic or electric assist you must overcome the steering rack and tyre inertia directly.