You may have never realized that the power steering pump can go bad until it actually does. Don’t worry. Crossroads Automotive can replace your faulty power steering pump with a new one. On average, the power steering pump that was installed when your vehicle was assembled will last about 100,000 miles. If you’ve clocked this much mileage and notice any of the problems listed below, it’s time to replace the power steering pump.
Groaning or Moaning Noises
The pump will protest when you turn the steering will. It will make groaning or moaning noises that will get louder as you continue to turn the wheel. In some cases, the pump may also squeal. If you hear noises when you turn your steering wheel, bring your vehicle to our shop so we can inspect the steering system. Chances are, you need a new power steering pump.
Difficulty Turning the Wheel
It can also get hard to turn your steering wheel if the power steering pump has died. When this happens, you do not have any power steering fluid circulating through the system. This fluid is what makes turning your steering wheel easy. Consequently, if your steering wheel is stiff and hard to turn, you may need a new power steering pump.
Unresponsive Steering
Ignoring the above problems may lead to unresponsive steering. As you can imagine, this can put you into quite a pickle when you are on the road. If your vehicle does not respond when you turn the steering wheel, you could be the cause of an automobile accident. As such, it’s important to have the steering system inspected at the first sign of trouble.
Leaking Steering Fluid
Another sign of trouble is leaking power steering fluid on your garage floor. The color of the fluid is red, and it will leak underneath your engine. You can check the level of the power steering fluid in the reservoir that is clearly marked in your engine. Do this when your engine is cold. If the level is low, the power steering pump could be leaking power steering fluid.
Silver Steering Fluid
Finally, we definitely need to install a new power steering pump into your steering system if the power steering fluid has turned silver. This means that the fluid is filled with metal flakes that are literally parts of the power steering pump. It is disintegrating.
Call Crossroads Automotive in Topeka, KS, today to schedule an appointment for a power steering pump inspection.