How do you know if your power steering unit is bad?
If your vehicle's power steering is not functioning properly, it could be a sign of a bad power steering unit. Identifying the issue early can help you avoid further damage and costly repairs. In this article, we'll explore the key signs that indicate a problem with your power steering unit.
Common Symptoms of a Bad Power Steering Unit
The power steering unit is responsible for making it easier to turn your vehicle's steering wheel. When this component starts to fail, you may notice the following symptoms:
- Difficulty Steering: If the steering wheel feels heavy or requires more effort to turn, it could be a sign of a bad power steering unit.
- Whining or Groaning Noises: A malfunctioning power steering unit may produce unusual noises, such as whining or groaning, when you turn the steering wheel.
- Fluid Leaks: Power steering fluid leaks around the power steering unit or hoses can indicate a problem with the system.
- Steering Wheel Vibration: If the steering wheel vibrates or shakes when turning, it could be a sign of a failing power steering unit.li>
If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to determine the root cause and address the issue before it worsens.
Diagnosing a Bad Power Steering Unit
To diagnose a bad power steering unit, a mechanic will typically perform the following steps:
- Visual Inspection: The mechanic will visually inspect the power steering unit, hoses, and connections for any signs of damage, leaks, or wear.
- Pressure Test: A pressure test will be conducted to measure the power steering system's pressure and ensure it's within the manufacturer's specifications.
- Fluid Level and Condition Check: The mechanic will check the power steering fluid level and inspect the fluid for any signs of contamination or degradation.
- Electrical System Diagnosis: If the power steering unit is electrically controlled, the mechanic will check the electrical components, such as the power steering pump, for any issues.
Based on the findings of these diagnostic tests, the mechanic will be able to determine if the power steering unit needs to be repaired or replaced.
Preventive Maintenance for Power Steering
To help extend the life of your power steering unit and avoid costly repairs, it's important to follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule, which typically includes:
- Regular Power Steering Fluid Changes: The power steering fluid should be changed at the intervals specified in your vehicle's owner's manual.
- Inspection of Power Steering Components: Have your power steering system inspected by a mechanic during routine maintenance to identify any potential issues early.
- Addressing Leaks Promptly: If you notice any power steering fluid leaks, have them addressed as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the system.
By staying on top of power steering maintenance and addressing any issues promptly, you can help ensure your vehicle's power steering system continues to function properly and safely.
What happens when a power steering pump goes out?
When a power steering pump fails, the most immediate and noticeable effect is a loss of power assist, making the steering wheel very hard to turn, especially at low speeds. You will also likely hear strange noises like whining or grinding, see leaks of red power steering fluid, and your dashboard may show a warning light. It is dangerous to drive with a failed pump, as it can make it difficult to control the vehicle.
This video explains the symptoms of a bad power steering pump: 59sHonest Mechanic ColoradoYouTube · May 21, 2024
What happens to the steering and car
- Hard to steer: The steering wheel will become significantly heavier and require much more physical effort to turn, making you feel like you are driving a manual steering vehicle.
- Loss of assistance: At low speeds, or when stationary, turning the wheel can be very difficult. At higher speeds, the steering may still be manageable but the lack of assist can still make it feel sluggish or unresponsive.
- Dangerous to drive: Driving with a failed power steering pump is unsafe because it can lead to a loss of control, especially in situations requiring quick steering adjustments.
What you might hear and see
- Noises: You may hear a loud whining, groaning, or grinding noise, particularly when you turn the steering wheel.
- Fluid leaks: A leaking pump will cause the power steering fluid, which is typically red, to leak and create red spots on the ground where you park.
- Contaminated fluid: The power steering fluid may turn a murky or greyish color, or you might see tiny metal flakes, which indicates the pump's internal components are disintegrating.
You can watch this video to learn how to check for leaks and other signs: 1mHVAC Mechanic YouTube · Oct 23, 2023
What you should do
- Avoid driving if possible: If the pump has completely failed, it is best to have the vehicle towed to a mechanic.
- Get it fixed: A mechanic can diagnose the problem and replace the pump or repair the leak to restore your steering.
How to tell if power steering is going bad?
5 Symptoms that May Point to Your Power Steering Failing
- Your Steering Wheel Feels Stiff.
- Your Car's Steering Doesn't Handle the Way it Used To.
- Your Power Steering Fluid is Low or Discolored.
- You Hear a Squealing or Whining Sound.
- You Hear a Groaning Sound.
What is the most common failure in a power steering system?
The most common cause of power steering failure is low power steering fluid due to leaks in hoses or the pump, which prevents the system from building adequate pressure. Other frequent causes include a worn-out steering pump, a broken or slipping drive belt, and a buildup of contaminants or air in the system.
Fluid-related issues
- Leaks: Hoses, couplings, and seals can crack or loosen over time, causing power steering fluid to leak out. A visible puddle of fluid under the car is a key sign of a leak.
- Low fluid level: A leak leads to low fluid, which is the most direct cause of loss of steering assist.
- Contaminated fluid: Dirt or other debris in the fluid can clog lines and damage the pump, reducing performance.
Component failure
- Worn-out steering pump: The pump is a key component that can fail as it ages, with internal seals and parts breaking down.
- Slipped or broken drive belt: This belt drives the power steering pump. If it slips or breaks, the pump will not function, resulting in a complete loss of power assist.
- Damaged hoses or lines: These can wear out, crack, or become loose, leading to leaks and a loss of pressure.
Other causes
- Air in the system: Air can get into the system, especially after a leak is repaired, causing the pump to whine and the steering to feel inconsistent. The system needs to be properly bled to remove the air.
- Rough driving: Repeatedly driving on very rough roads can put excess stress on the system and cause damage.
How much does it cost to replace a power steering unit?
The average cost to replace a power steering pump is between $500 and $900, but can range from $300 to over $1,000 depending on your vehicle and location. The total cost includes parts (around \$400-\$500) and labor (which varies by shop, often one to three hours). Factors like your car's make, luxury models costing more, and the use of remanufactured vs. new parts influence the final price.
This video explains the cost of power steering replacement and the factors that influence it: 1mLearnToDIY360YouTube · Dec 9, 2024
Cost breakdown
- Parts: Typically range from $460−$595$ 460 minus $ 595$460−$595 for new pumps. Using remanufactured parts can save 20-30%.
- Labor: Generally takes 1-3 hours, but costs can vary from around $200−$300$ 200 minus $ 300$200−$300 to over $400$ 400$400 depending on the shop's hourly rate and the complexity of the job.
- Additional Costs: You may also need to replace the serpentine belt at the same time, which costs about $25−$75$ 25 minus $ 75$25−$75.
Factors that affect the total cost
- Vehicle type: Larger SUVs and luxury cars will have higher parts and labor costs.
- Labor rates: Shop rates vary by location. Dealerships may be 20-50% more expensive than independent mechanics.
- Part quality: The difference between OEM (original equipment manufacturer), aftermarket, or remanufactured parts will change the final price.
- Additional repairs: If other components like hoses are also failing, the cost will increase.
