Difficult to Turn the Car or Loud Squealing Noises When Turning?
Every part of your car serves a purpose, no matter how small. Sure, some parts are more important than others, such as any part that impacts the drivability of your car. Your power steering pump is one such vital part. Without it working properly, your vehicle is almost impossible to use. If you’re concerned about a failing power steering pump, these are the symptoms to look for.
Power Steering Pumps Are Essential
Modern vehicles rely on power steering pumps to make smooth, safe turns. These pumps are pretty much essential. Your power steering pump reads signals from your steering wheel, then applies the appropriate amount of pressure to your steering linkages. This allows your tires to effortlessly turn in the direction of your steering wheel.
Turning the Steering Wheel Makes a Squealing Noise
If your vehicle makes loud whining or squealing noises when you make a turn, that’s an obvious sign that something is wrong with your power steering. This usually means your power steering reservoir has low fluid levels. Before doing anything else, check your fluid levels. If power steering fluid levels are too low for too long, you risk damaging the entire power steering system. Replenish any power steering fluids ASAP.
Mechanic’s Note: Low power steering fluid is usually a symptom of a greater issue. After all, that fluid had to go somewhere. Check for leaks under your car. The liquid should be reddish-brown if it comes from your power steering. Adding fluid will get you from point A to B, typically if the leak isn’t too bad, but you shouldn’t drive more than necessary. Adding power steering fluid is only a band-aid fix.
Steering Wheel Response is Stiff or Slow
If you’re making a turn and notice that your vehicle isn’t responding very well, that’s another symptom of faulty power steering. Sit still and turn the wheel sharply. If you notice the steering is stiff and hard to turn, it’s a sign of a bad or failing power steering pump.
High-Pitched Squeal When Starting Your Car
Hearing a high-pitched squeal when you start your car could indicate a bad power steering pump. The thing is, it could also point to one of several other problems: a bad water pump, alternator, AC compressor, idler pulleys, or serpentine belt, to name a few. Or it could mean you need a little more belt tension. This squealing sound is a great indication that something is wrong with your car, but to find the specific problem, you’ll need to research it further.
Odd Colored Puddle Under Your Car
What do we mean by “odd color”? If you’ve seen a power steering leak, the puddles are usually reddish-brown, and the fluid is thin. This matches the consistency of brake fluid or transmission fluid.
If you notice a reddish-brown puddle of liquid under your car, inspect your power steering pump for cracks in the housing. Power steering fluid will be bleeding from the crack. You can also check the reservoir body, hoses, and power steering lines for more evidence of leaks.
What if My Power Steering Pump is Bad
Have you determined that the reddish-brown spots on your driveway are caused by power steering pump problems? You can have a new power steering pump delivered tomorrow if you order one from Partsology by 3 pm.
Bad Power Steering Pump FAQs
Q. What are the first signs of a failing power steering pump?
A. The earliest signs often include whining or groaning noises when turning the wheel, difficulty steering at low speeds, and intermittent loss of power assist. Drivers may also notice jerky or stiff steering before total failure.
Q. Can you drive with a bad power steering pump?
A. While it’s technically possible to drive with a failing pump, it is not recommended. Steering will become increasingly difficult and unsafe, especially during turns or emergency maneuvers, which could potentially lead to loss of vehicle control.
Q. What causes a power steering pump to go bad?
A. Common causes include low or contaminated power steering fluid, worn internal components, damaged belts, or prolonged use under heavy load. Lack of regular maintenance is one of the biggest contributing factors.
Q. How much does it cost to replace a power steering pump?
A. Replacement costs can vary depending on the vehicle, but typically range from $300 to $800, including parts and labor. Luxury or performance vehicles may cost more due to specialized components.
Q. How can I prevent power steering pump failure?
A. Regularly checking and maintaining power steering fluid levels, using the correct fluid type, fixing leaks promptly, and avoiding excessive strain on the steering system can help extend the life of the pump.