Cars, trucks, and utility vehicles that are equipped with hydraulic power steering systems have pumps to circulate the power steering fluid. AmeriFix advises that this pump generally lasts about 100,000 miles before it needs to be replaced. If you drive an older automobile and notice any of the following five signs of a faulty power steering pump below, bring your vehicle to our shop so we can install a new pump. The new pump will be high in quality and last about another 100,000 miles.
1. Groaning Noises When Steering
One of the most common things that happens with a malfunctioning power steering pump is that it will start to groan when you turn the steering wheel. If you hear groaning or moaning every time you change directions, head straight to our shop so we can inspect the power steering pump and replace it if necessary. Ignoring these sounds can cause additional problems with the pump.
2. Difficulty Turning the Wheel
For example, it may start to get difficult to turn your steering wheel when you need to change directions. This is a sign that the pump is not circulating the power steering fluid through the system. If you have experienced driving an automobile with manual steering, this is what it will feel like.
3. Steering That Doesn’t Respond
You may also end up being unable to control your vehicle because the steering will not respond. If this is the case, get your vehicle out of traffic and call for a tow truck. Do not continue to attempt to drive your automobile if the steering is non-responsive. You run the risk of getting into an automobile accident.
4. Leaking Power Steering Fluid
The power steering pump can also start to leak power steering fluid when it goes bad. If this is the case, you will see red spots or puddles on your garage floor underneath the engine. As the power steering fluid leaks out of the system, it will get more and more difficult to navigate your automobile. Low power steering fluid levels can make turning the wheel hard when you need to turn it.
5. Metal in the Steering Fluid
Finally, if your power steering pump is dissolving, you will end up with metal in the power steering fluid. You will be able to see the metal flakes if you check your power steering fluid. The power steering pump definitely needs to be replaced with a new one if it is disintegrating into the steering fluid.
Call AmeriFix in Franklin, TN, today to schedule an appointment for your automobile for a power steering system inspection.
