January 10, 2021
Most drivers love how easy it is to turn their vehicles, and they have power steering to thank. Engineers have figured out a way to take some of your engine's power to help you turn. Without it, steering can be quite a chore. New power systems are electric, but there are still plenty of the older hydraulic power steering systems out there, and it's wise to keep them working the way they should so you don't find yourself stranded without power steering.
Those hydraulic power systems use a fluid under pressure that is pumped to a device that helps you turn your wheels more easily. It's that pressure that presents the challenge. After your vehicle's seen a few years on the road, you may find your steering isn't quite as easy as it was. You may hear a groaning or humming sound when you turn.
One component that can fail is the pressure hose that carries that fluid from the power steering pump to that turning assist mechanism. The hose is made of rubber and can leak, crack, get damaged by heat and debris or just get too old. If yours is ten years old or older, it's likely getting close to the end of its life.
If you think you can just wait until it fails completely, think of these possible consequences. If the hose or a coupling fails, power steering fluid can blow all over the hot engine. That fluid is flammable and can start a fire. Or if you've been driving for a few weeks with low power steering fluid, that could ruin your power steering pump. Replacing the pump is an extra expense you can probably live without.
A technician will replace the necessary parts and make sure air and contaminants are bled or flushed from the system. Then, he or she will check for leaks. Just think how important a properly working power steering system is for safe operation of your vehicle. Make sure you keep yours in top shape for your safety's sake and the safety of others on the road around you.
Tuffy Tire & Auto Service Center Lockport
600 E 9th Street
Lockport, Illinois 60441
815-838-3700
April 20, 2025
Many of us have become aware of how important it is to keep our planets air clean, and your vehicle has a key component that helps do just that: the catalytic converter. Its in the exhaust system, and its job is to superheat unburned, harmful byproducts in the exhaust, so they dont get spewed ou... More
April 13, 2025
As you know, todays vehicles rely on a lot of computers in them to keep them running clean and efficiently. Those computers depend on information delivered by several sensors throughout the engine and exhaust system. And one of the most important is the oxygen sensor. Known as the O2 sensor f... More
April 6, 2025
What's the dif? To an automotive technician, it's the differential, a part of your vehicle that helps direct power from the engine to the wheels. The differential is a gearbox that enables the drive wheels to turn at different speeds (they do that when you turn). Inside the differential is a f... More