If your car is equipped with a hydraulic power steering system, it has a pump. This pump moves the fluid through the system to make turning your automobile a breeze. The pump lasts on average 100,000 miles. After this time, the pump may start to have problems and need to be replaced. Do not worry. If your car needs a new steering pump, we can install it.
Strange Noises
For example, if you hear strange noises when you make turns, the steering pump may be going bad. It will groan when you turn the steering wheel. In some cases, the groan may sound more like a moan. In other cases, the pump may squeal or hum.
Stiff Wheel
In addition to the odd noises, you may also feel that the steering wheel has gotten stiff. This is a sign that there isn’t any steering fluid circulating through the system. Consequently, the pump may have died. At a minimum, it is malfunctioning.
Unresponsiveness
Unfortunately, the problem can get worse if left untreated. For example, you may turn the wheel and your vehicle may not respond. This unresponsiveness can be attributed to a faulty steering pump. If you cannot control your automobile, do not drive it. Have it towed.
Leaking Fluid
As the pump ages, it may start to leak the steering fluid. When this happens, you will have a low level of steering fluid in the system. This can cause the problems discussed above. Unfortunately, we can’t repair a leaking pump. We must replace it.
Silver Fluid
The normal color of power steering fluid is red. If the color of the fluid that you see on the garage floor is silver, or if you see silver flakes in the red fluid, it’s time to replace the pump. The silver flakes are portions of the pump that have dissolved into the fluid.
If you are having any of the problems discussed in this blog post, call us to set up a service appointment for your automobile. We will inspect the power steering pump to see if it is malfunctioning or leaking. If it is, we will replace it. We are steering system experts, so if the problem is not the pump, we will find it and fix it. You can count on us for all of your automotive service and repair needs. Again, call us today to schedule a service appointment.
