Your power steering fluids play a key part in making sure that your car functions properly. If you don’t make sure that the Power steering fluid is changed when it needs to be, or if there isn’t enough there, then you could risk a costly car repair.
Our topic in this article is going to be Power steering fluids and some of the signs that indicate you must either change the Power steering fluid or top it up.
Sign #1 – Why is my steering heavy?
Most modern cars are still fitted with hydraulic power steering and so if you struggle to steer properly, this is the number one sign that there’s an issue with the power steering.
The first thing to do is look at the fluid reservoir. Check the power steering fluid level and if it isn’t full, top it off. As the power steering system is a closed system, and that power steering fluid doesn’t evaporate, topping up the fluid may only fix the problem temporarily and there may be a deeper issue to be dealt with.
Sign #2 – What causes powersteering oil to discolour?
If you notice that your Power steering fluid has begun to change colour, this may be a sign that the fluid has begun oxidising. Typically, the colour will darken as it becomes more contaminated or starts to break down. Power steering fluids can be red; predominantly clear; amber or even green coloured when new.
When you notice this, it’s important that you change the steering fluid to prevent any damage being inflicted on the car’s power steering system.
Sign #3 – Why is my powersteering oil low?
If you notice that the steering becomes harder or you hear an odd noise when turning the steering wheel, this can be an indication that there is an issue somewhere within your steering system.
This can be a sign that there is a lack in hydraulic pressure as a result of low power steering fluid and may need to be topped. As a result, the power steering pump may make an odd noise and won’t do its job efficiently.
Sign #4 – Why is there loud screeching noises when steering?
If you hear a noise coming from your car you should instantly acknowledge that something isn’t right. In this case, if you hear a whiny / screeching noise this can indicate that there’s an issue with either the steering pump or a drive belt.
These are both essential parts of your car, as with any unnatural noise, it’s recommended to get your vehicle inspected by your local mechanic.
Sign #5 – Why is my power steering fluid is leaking?
Your car’s steering system is very dependent on the power steering fluid. It’s important that a high volume of Power steering fluid is being pumped through the system and because of that, a leak must be dealt with as soon as you’ve found it. There are several common places in a power steering system where a leak may be found, such as:
Power steering pumps can get damaged overtime if the Power steering fluid is contaminated. As the power steering system uses extreme hydraulic pressure to move, a split in a hose can also cause a leak. In some cases, if there has been any damage on the power steering rack, power steering fluid may leak from the seals.
When your system is working flawlessly and there are no leaks, the power steering fluid will be pressured through the system by the pump. If there is a leak anywhere in the power steering system then there will be a drop in the pressure and the fluid will not be doing its job. If the leak is significant, the power steering fluid will be incredibly ineffective and you will struggle to steer properly.
*Important information* - Click here to read more about our How-To terms and conditions.