Tag: Power Steering
The Average Driver's Quick Guide To Power Steering
by admin on Apr.30, 2009, under Car Maintenance, Car Tips
The Average Driver’s Quick Guide To Power Steering
Seldom do we give much thought to the technical aspects regarding how we direct our cars on the road. If we need to make a right turn, we turn right. Older drivers might remember a time when turning a vehicle was practically a battle of wills. Power steering was not an option back then.
Of all car parts and assemblies, your vehicle’s power steering system is one of the most overlooked. We use it each day, yet most drivers never realize how the components which make up the assembly work together. Below, I’ll explain how it is powered, how you can get the most from it, and signs that there may be a problem.
How The Assembly Is Powered
When your engine is turning, it drives a belt. That belt activates a pump. The pump, when triggered, pressurizes a fluid within the assembly which allows you to easily turn the wheel. If you have ever tried to steer your car when the engine dies, you’ll know how difficult it is. If the engine stalls, it cannot drive the belt. As a result, the pump cannot pressurize the fluid which helps you turn your steering wheel.
The most common form of the assembly is called rack-and-pinion. That’s the type you’ll find in nearly all vehicles sold today. It uses a valve to direct the pressurized fluid to one end of the cylinder. As you turn the wheel, the fluid’s flow is directed toward the other side.
The ease with which the wheel turns is controlled by the automaker. Some car manufacturers, in an attempt to make their vehicles’ wheels easier to turn, make them so responsive that you can turn them almost by breathing on them.
How To Get The Most From The System
You can maximize the efficiency of your car’s power steering by keeping the right amount of pressure in the tires. If the tires are underinflated, they’ll be more difficult to turn. Also, consider having them rotated in order to keep healthy treads in the front. Most vehicles are front-wheel drive, so the front tires are affected more than the rear.
Warning Signs Of A Problem
Your vehicle’s power steering assembly should last for years without needing any maintenance. But, like all car parts, it can fail. Fortunately, there are usually warning signs which signal there may be a problem. For example, if you notice uncharacteristic sluggishness, have a mechanic inspect the system. If your car drifts and seems slightly out of your control while you’re turning, that too, can suggest a problem. Finally, if you turn the wheel completely to one side and hear a shrieking noise, drive immediately to a repair shop.
If a problem develops, no matter how small it seems, have it fixed quickly before it evolves into a bigger, and more dangerous, issue.