What can cause the steering wheel to be harder to turn than usual?
Experiencing difficulty turning your steering wheel can be both frustrating and dangerous. At Kevin's Autos, with years of experience in car maintenance and repair, we’ve seen this issue arise from a variety of causes. In this article, we’ll explore the most common reasons why your steering wheel might feel harder to turn and what you can do about it.
1. Low Power Steering Fluid
One of the most common reasons for a stiff steering wheel is low power steering fluid. This fluid is essential for the hydraulic system that assists in steering. If the fluid level is low, it can cause increased resistance when turning the wheel. This issue is often caused by a leak in the power steering system.
2. Faulty Power Steering Pump
The power steering pump is responsible for circulating the fluid that helps reduce the effort needed to turn the wheel. If the pump is failing or has completely stopped working, you may notice that the steering becomes much harder, especially at lower speeds.
3. Worn or Damaged Steering Rack
The steering rack connects the steering wheel to the wheels of your car. Over time, the rack can wear out or become damaged, particularly if you frequently drive on rough roads. A failing steering rack can make the wheel harder to turn, especially when the car is cold or during sharp turns.
4. Issues with the Serpentine Belt
The serpentine belt drives the power steering pump. If the belt is loose, worn, or broken, it can prevent the pump from functioning properly, leading to a stiff steering wheel. This is a relatively common issue and can usually be resolved by replacing the belt.
5. Tire Problems
Sometimes, the issue isn’t with the steering system at all but with the tires. Underinflated tires or tires with uneven wear can create additional resistance, making it harder to turn the wheel. Always ensure your tires are properly inflated and in good condition.
6. Steering Column Issues
The steering column houses the mechanisms that connect the steering wheel to the rest of the system. If there’s a blockage, rust, or damage within the column, it can cause stiffness when turning the wheel. This issue often requires professional inspection and repair.
7. Contaminated Power Steering Fluid
Over time, power steering fluid can become contaminated with debris or moisture, reducing its effectiveness. Dirty fluid can cause the steering system to work harder, making the wheel more difficult to turn. Flushing and replacing the fluid can often resolve this issue.
What Should You Do If You Notice This Problem?
If your steering wheel is harder to turn than usual, it’s important to address the issue promptly to avoid further damage or potential safety risks. Here are some steps you can take:
- Check the power steering fluid level and top it off if necessary.
- Inspect your tires for proper inflation and wear.
- Listen for unusual noises, such as whining or squealing, which could indicate a failing pump or belt.
- Schedule an inspection with a trusted auto repair shop to diagnose and fix the problem.
At Kevin's Autos, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing steering issues, ensuring your vehicle is safe and easy to drive. If you’re experiencing a stiff steering wheel, don’t hesitate to contact us for professional assistance. Your safety is our priority!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the symptoms of electric power steering failure?
Symptoms of EPS Problems
You may notice stiff steering or difficulty turning the wheel, often stemming from problems with the torque sensor or electrical connections. Additionally, if you encounter uneven steering assistance, this could indicate calibration errors linked to the steering angle sensor.
Why is my steering wheel suddenly hard to turn?
If your power steering fluid levels are low, it can cause your steering wheel to feel stiff. Check your power steering fluid levels regularly and top up as needed. Damaged power steering pump - The power steering pump is accountable for pumping power steering fluid through the steering system.
How do you fix a weak power steering?
Refill the system with fresh power steering fluid, then bleed any air by turning the steering wheel several times. Regular inspection and maintenance of the pump can prevent further issues, maintaining optimal steering performance. Always refer to the vehicle manual for specific instructions and torque settings.
What are the 3 things that can cause hard steering?
Some of the reasons behind a hard steering wheel are:
- Low-power steering fluid.
- Old and thick power steering fluid.
- The power steering pump malfunction.
- Distorted steering rack.
- The damaged serpentine belt, and.
- Inaccurate tyre pressure.
What are the symptoms of a faulty steering rack?
Look out for the following signs!
- Your Car Wanders From Left To Right. Whether you're cruising or booting it, if you find your vehicle wandering a little, this may be a symptom of a faulty steering rack.
- There Are Grinding Noises When Steering.
- A Smell That Resembles Burning Oil.
- A Power Steering Fluid Leak.
How much does it cost to fix electric power steering?
On average, replacing your power steering pump can cost between $500 and $900, but it's essential to avoid more serious damage to the power steering system. Replacing the pump yourself can save you about $300 and significantly lower the total cost of this repair.
How to fix stiff electric power steering?
If electric steering is stiff only in one direction the usual cause is that the steering system is out of calibration and the usually fix is recalibrating it with the scan tool. Yes, this one really is that simple.
What are the signs of a failing ball joint?
In addition, the symptoms resulting from ball joint wear on different components can vary, and in some cases, they may mutually influence each other.
- Uneven or Bumpy Feeling.
- Shimmy / Wobble.
- Noise.
- Alignment Difficulties.
- Decreased Handling Performance, a Sense of Clearance, and Vagueness.
- Uneven Tire Wear.
- Visual Inspection.
Can bad ball joints cause stiff steering?
Steering — Worn ball joints can affect your vehicle's steering, usually making the steering sloppy or stiff depending on how the ball joint is wearing.
What are the three things that can cause hard steering?
Some of the reasons behind a hard steering wheel are:
- Low-power steering fluid.
- Old and thick power steering fluid.
- The power steering pump malfunction.
- Distorted steering rack.
- The damaged serpentine belt, and.
- Inaccurate tyre pressure.
