9 Common Steering Problems and Their Fixes

While steering problems can give you a headache, it is important to know the root of your problem. Your steering problems could be due to suspension system issues, bad tires, or other issues that have nothing to do with your steering system. But it could be the steering system, which is why it is so important to correctly diagnose the problem. It is important to fix steering issues as quickly as possible because driving with these problems can lead to an accident or an injury. If you live in Utah, visit Ace Auto in West Jordan and receive affordable service from experienced mechanics.

Here are some of the most common power steering problems symptoms you may encounter:

1. Power Steering Fluid is Low: Like any other fluid in your car, you have to make sure your power steering fluid is at the appropriate level. This ensures your car runs perfectly. If it gets hard to steer your car, make sure to check your power steering level first. Power steering problems often start with the fluid.
2. Power Steering Leak: If you have low power steering fluid, there could be a leak. Check under your car for a puddle; power steering fluid is generally clear, red or pink. If you notice a puddle in one of these colors, check the power steering fluid level. Also, check for power steering fluid foaming.
3. Damaged Steering Rack Mount: If you are noticing that your steering wheel is beginning to feel uncontrollable, it could be a damaged steering rack mount. This problem can be fixed on your own, but if you’re not sure how to fix electric power steering problems, take it to a certified mechanic.
4. Damaged Power Steering Belt: If your power steering belt becomes slack or worn out, your steering wheel will begin to feel heavy or seem to jerk. This issue can be fixed by tightening the belt or replacing it.
5. Bad Strut Bearings: If you have found that your steering wheel is beginning to stray as you drive, it could be the strut bearings or the tie rods. This is often due to a broken steering rack and should be fixed by a professional. You may even notice noise when turning steering wheel.
6. Hard to Steer: If you find the steering wheel is hard to turn, and you are having to exert a lot of strength to turn your car’s steering wheel, it could be that you have low tire pressure, the power steering could be inoperative, or there may be problems in the steering system itself. If you’ve been in an accident, your car’s frame could be bent which could make the car hard to steer. But first, make sure to check your tire pressure first. Power steering problems hard to turn make it tough to drive.
7. Excessive Play in Steering: If you notice a lot of extra movement in your steering wheel, steering wheel slipping, or steering wheel vibration, it can make it hard to control your car. This may be due to looseness in your steering gear, the steering linkage, or the wheel bearing.
8. Steering is Drifting: If your car is starting to drift from one side of the road to the other, it could be because your tires don’t have the right pressure or they are mismatched. If your gears aren’t lubricated correctly, your steering gear is too loose, or you are facing suspension issues, these can all lead to the car wandering.
9. Vehicle is Pulling: If your vehicle is always pulling to one side when you’re driving, it is often due to uneven tire pressure. It could also simply mean your car is out of alignment. If may even seem that your steering wheel off center.

Visit Ace Auto in West Jordan, Utah for Fast, Friendly, and Professional Service

No matter what the cause or signs of steering problems, whether it is power steering problems or electric power steering problems, it is essential that you take your vehicle to a certified, experienced mechanic to fix the issue. Driving a car with power steering issues could lead to accident or injury. Give Utah’s trusted mechanics at Ace Auto a call today at 801-803-6016 to schedule an appointment and get a free repair quote!

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