If your vehicle’s power steering seems stiff or nonresponsive, it’s possible that the power steering pump has gone bad. Crossroads Automotive can inspect your power steering system to determine the problem so we can fix it. If we need to, we can replace the power steering pump. We are going to list the signs of a faulty power steering pump below so you know what to look for.
Strange Noises When Steering
If you hear strange noises when you are steering your automobile such as groaning or moaning, the power steering pump is protesting. This can also be a sign that your power steering fluid is too low. If you check the fluid and it is at the correct level, it’s a safe bet to assume that the power steering pump is the power steering system part that is making the groaning and moaning noises.
Difficulty Turning the Wheel
Low power steering fluid can also make it difficult to turn your steering wheel. Again, if there is no need to top off the fluid, difficulty turning the wheel can point to a malfunctioning power steering pump. Unfortunately, there’s no way to repair the pump. It generally needs to be replaced after about 100,000 miles of usage. A new pump will make turning the steering wheel easy again.
Steering That Doesn’t Respond
Unfortunately, a bad power steering pump can open you up to the dangerous situation of steering that does not respond. In other words, you will turn your steering wheel but your vehicle will not change directions. If this happens, get your vehicle off the road as quickly as possible and call for a tow truck to our shop. Do not try to drive your automobile if you cannot control it.
Leaking Power Steering Fluid
An old power steering pump can also start to leak power steering fluid on the garage floor. The normal color of power steering fluid is red. If you see red spots underneath your automobile, it’s possible that your power steering pump has started to leak power steering fluid. This will naturally reduce the level of power steering fluid in the system and make it difficult to steer.
Metal in the Power Steering Fluid
Finally, you may end up with a disintegrating power steering pump. When this happens, you will see metal flakes in the power steering fluid. This is the pump dissolving into the fluid.
Call Crossroads Automotive in Topeka, KS, today if you are having problems steering your automobile. We can find out what’s wrong and fix the problem.