Common Steering System Issues You Should Know
While driving, we often don’t think of the various components that make up the steering system we take for granted. It usually goes overlooked until you notice an unusual feeling or sound while turning your steering wheel. However, the steering system is one of the most important systems in your vehicle, and is responsible for keeping you in complete control of the vehicle. When this system experiences issues, it can lead to a host of safety concerns and potential damage to surrounding components.
In this article, we’ll cover the most important components of the steering system, the common problems this system can experience, and what they could mean for the condition of your vehicle.
Components of the Steering System
While heavily intertwined with other systems, such as the suspension, there are a few major components of the steering system that are important to understand.
Power Steering Pump
In vehicles with hydraulic power steering setups, the power steering pump is responsible for producing the hydraulic pressure needed to make turning your steering wheel easy. Driven by the engine’s accessory belt, the pump assists in providing hydraulic fluid to either side of the steering rack as needed.
Steering Column
The steering column is the physical connection between the steering wheel and the intermediate shaft, which transfers this rotation to the steering rack.
Steering Rack & Pinion
The rack and pinion is a set of components that converts the rotary motion of the steering wheel into linear motion to rotate the vehicle’s front wheels.
Steering Linkages
Made up of components such as tie rods, drag links, and center links, linkages connect the rack-and-pinion assembly to the steering knuckles.
Steering Knuckles
Steering knuckles connect the suspension arms, tie rods, and brakes, which allows the wheel assembly to move up and down as needed.
Common Steering System Issues To Look Out For
Low/Old Power Steering Fluid
The hydraulic power steering fluid is vital for assisting in making your vehicle’s steering light and controllable. This fluid runs in a closed system and is used continually, meaning that even a small leak can allow a significant amount of critical fluid to leave the system.
Without adequate power steering fluid, the system will not be able to generate the same hydraulic pressure, which can make the steering wheel difficult to turn while forcing the power steering pump to operate at higher stress.
Similar issues can occur when the power steering fluid becomes contaminated with moisture and debris. Inclusion of air bubbles and debris can allow the hydraulic fluid to compress rather than transferring force, leading to a stiff steering feel or other unusual sounds and feelings.
Squealing/Whining Noise When Turning
Like how low fluid can result in power steering problems, the same can occur when the power steering pump fails and is unable to produce the proper hydraulic pressure. A failing pump, or one experiencing extra stress due to old fluid, will often make a squealing noise as you turn the wheel.
Vehicle Pulls to One Side
If you notice your vehicle veering to one particular side even while you have the steering wheel perfectly straight, it’s likely the result of bad alignment. Wheel alignment services ensure that each suspension and steering component is precisely aligned to keep the wheels pointing straight. Over time, these components can fall out of alignment, which leads to the components shifting angles and potentially altering the alignment of your wheels.
Your vehicle can also fall out of alignment when it experiences a hard impact, such as hitting a curb or driving over a speed bump particularly fast. If you notice your vehicle veering to one side, you should bring it to a trusted professional for an alignment to prevent further damage and tire wear.
Stiff Steering
While a stiff-feeling steering wheel is often caused by a lack of power steering fluid, it may also be due to mechanical failures within the steering rack. If you notice unusual metallic grinding sounds while turning, along with a stiff steering feel and excess play in the wheel, it could be time to have your steering rack inspected by a trusted professional.
Steering & Suspension System Service in Tucson, AZ
It’s never a good idea to let steering system issues linger, as they could have a significant effect on the safety and drivability of your vehicle. If you’re experiencing an unusual steering feel or sound, reach out to the team at Micro Import Service in Tucson, AZ, for the utmost quality of import vehicle service and repair.
Give us a call or schedule online today to secure your appointment with the premier steering and suspension system experts in the Tucson area!