Home FAQ

Does a Chevy Cruze have a power steering pump?

Yes, the Chevrolet Cruze is equipped with a power steering pump. The power steering pump is a critical component that helps make steering the vehicle easier and more responsive.

What is a Power Steering Pump?

A power steering pump is a hydraulic pump that provides the necessary pressure to the power steering system, allowing the driver to turn the steering wheel with minimal effort. It draws fluid from the power steering reservoir and circulates it through the power steering system, creating the hydraulic pressure needed to assist the driver's steering input.

Power Steering in the Chevy Cruze

The Chevrolet Cruze is equipped with a power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering system, which means it uses a power steering pump to provide the hydraulic pressure needed for easy steering. The power steering pump in the Cruze is responsible for the following functions:

Draws power steering fluid from the reservoir

Pressurizes the fluid to the required level

Circulates the pressurized fluid through the power steering system

Provides the necessary hydraulic assistance to the steering rack

Without a properly functioning power steering pump, the Cruze's steering would become much heavier and more difficult to turn, making the vehicle less responsive and harder to control.

Importance of the Power Steering Pump

The power steering pump is a critical component in the Cruze's steering system. It plays a vital role in providing the necessary hydraulic assistance to the driver, making the steering feel light and responsive. If the power steering pump fails or experiences issues, it can lead to a number of problems, including:

Increased steering effort required

Difficulty turning the steering wheel

Potential loss of power steering assistance

Increased wear and tear on other steering components

Regular maintenance and inspection of the power steering system, including the pump, is essential to ensure the Cruze's steering remains in good working order and provides a safe and comfortable driving experience.

How do I tell if my power steering pump is out?

Symptoms of a bad power steering pump include whining or groaning noises, especially when turning, a stiff or hard-to-turn steering wheel, fluid leaks (often reddish-brown), and vibrations in the steering wheel. You may also notice a burning smell, a delay in steering response, or foamy power steering fluid.
Common symptoms of a failing power steering pump

Unusual noises: A whining or groaning sound when turning the wheel is a key indicator. You might also hear a squealing noise when starting the car or a screeching noise during sharp turns.
Difficulty steering: The steering wheel may feel stiff, heavy, or sluggish, especially at lower speeds or when parking.
Fluid leaks: Look for puddles of reddish or amber fluid under your vehicle. Leaks can come from the pump, hoses, or seals and indicate the pump is failing.
Vibrations: A failing pump can cause the steering wheel to vibrate or feel jerky.
Burning smell: This can occur if the pump is overheating due to internal friction or low fluid levels.
Poor steering response: You may experience a delay in steering response or feel the car pulling in one direction.
Foamy fluid: If the power steering fluid in the reservoir looks foamy or bubbly, it often means there is air in the system, which is caused by a leak or a failing pump.

What to do if you experience these symptoms

Check the fluid level: The first step is to check your power steering fluid level and condition. If it's low, add the correct type of fluid and check for leaks.
Inspect the belt: A loose or worn belt can cause squealing noises. Check the condition and tension of the belt that drives the pump.
Professional inspection: If the problem persists after checking the fluid and belt, have a mechanic inspect the power steering pump. Driving with a failing pump is not safe, as it can make steering difficult and unpredictable.

What is the most common problem with a Chevy Cruze?

The biggest problems with the Chevy Cruze often revolve around its powertrain, particularly the cooling system and transmission. Common issues include coolant leaks from plastic components, such as the thermostat housing and bypass hose, which can lead to overheating and potential engine damage. Transmission problems are also frequent, including faulty shifting, and failures caused by issues like bad torque converters or low fluid.

This video discusses common problems with the Chevy Cruze, including the cooling system: 50scar PROblemsYouTube · Jun 17, 2022
Cooling system issues

Leaks: Many models, especially those with plastic thermostat housings and bypass hoses, are prone to coolant leaks.
Overheating: A coolant leak can cause the engine to overheat, which can lead to serious damage if not addressed.
Head gasket failure: Overheating due to a cooling system failure can cause the head gasket to fail.

Transmission problems

Shifting issues: Owners have reported rough shifts and problems getting the car into gear.
Component failure: The transmission can fail due to a bad torque converter, faulty clutch, or a defective transmission solenoid.
Fluid-related problems: Low or improper transmission fluid can also be a cause of issues.

This video explains some of the common issues with the Chevy Cruze's transmission: 53sAlex The Car DoctorYouTube · Oct 27, 2023
Other common problems

Oil leaks: Some models have oil leaks from components like the valve cover and transmission seals.
Engine issues: A range of engine problems have been reported, including rough idle, whistling noises, and, in some models, engine failure or misfires.
Electrical problems: Issues with the electrical system and lighting have been a source of complaints.
Turbocharger problems: The turbocharger is another component that can experience issues.
Brake problems: Some models have reported problems with the rear brake calipers, which led to a recall.

Does the Chevy Cruze have power steering fluid?

The Chevy Cruze doesn't have power steering fluid because it uses the electric power steering system. But in Europe, earlier model years used to have the hydraulic fluid systems and in these cases, you will have the fluid reservoir right near the engine air filter box under the hood of your car.

Can you still drive if electric power steering goes out?

Yes, you can drive a car with electric power steering (EPS) failure, but it is not recommended for long distances and should be taken to a mechanic as soon as possible. Steering will be significantly heavier, especially at low speeds like parking, and it is more difficult to maneuver.
What to expect

Heavier steering: The most immediate effect is that the steering wheel will feel much heavier and require more physical effort to turn.
Difficult parking: Maneuvering at low speeds, like parking, will be very challenging.
Possible instability: In some cases, the failure can cause the vehicle to veer to one side, making it hard to keep straight, which is especially dangerous at high speeds.
Potential for other issues: The failure could be a sign of a larger problem with the steering system, and continuing to drive may worsen the issue.

Safety precautions

Drive with caution: If you must drive, do so carefully and be prepared for the extra effort needed to steer.
Avoid high-speed maneuvers: Be extremely cautious, especially when turning or making sudden movements at higher speeds.
Get it serviced immediately: Arrange for your vehicle to be inspected and repaired by a qualified mechanic as soon as you can.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.