It is a no-brainer that power steering technology has enhanced the ease of driving since its inclusion in the manufacture of cars as it allows the driver to have more control of the car. I guess you’re wondering what a power steering system is? You’ll get more information from this article.
Before we proceed, it is important to get a little understanding of a power steering assist.
It should be known that the power steering comprises a hydraulic power steering system and a power steering system. When there is a fault, it displays a warning and when this is the case, the power assist steering has to be repaired.
What is a Power Steering Assist?
The EPAS is in use in recent times and it is an acronym for Electric Power Assisted Steering. The system still consists of a hydraulic pump that is powered by hydraulic fluid. It functions by leveraging the electric pump’s pressure to ensure that the fluid aids in steering.
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Speaking of how it works, it consists of small and large components that work as a system to ensure high levels of accuracy.
When the steering is moved in a particular direction, this results in the pumping of the fluid in the reservoir. The hydraulic fluid then flows and increases the force of the steering wheel before reaching the road wheels.
The power-assisted steering system would easily pass for the typical power steering. Initially, the system was powered by hydraulic fluid and engine power but this is not the case in recent times as a hybrid system that consists of an electric pump is now in place.
Why Does A Power-Assisted Steering System Fail?
The components will differ depending on the type of power-assisted steering system in the car in question and should vary from car to car. Therefore, what is applicable here, may not be applicable elsewhere.
The steering wheel is the only way to control the motion of your car. The engine and brakes assist in propelling the vehicle forward and stopping it when necessary. The steering, on the other hand, is what keeps the car in control.
Therefore, it requires special care and maintenance. Meanwhile, below are some of the reasons why a power-assisted steering system would fail or develop a fault.
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Turning Difficulties
When you turn your steering wheel, you may occasionally hear grinding noises. This is not a major problem, and it is frequently a minor repair. However, the sounds can be unpleasant and frightening at times.
The belt drive is frequently the source of the problem. Examine the power steering pump pulley. If you hear grinding noises, this is the first thing you should look into.
Electrical Issues
This one has no relationship with the hydraulics of the system. However, the electrical system could be faulty and result in difficulty in turning the wheel and this is also the case when the car is low on hydraulic fluid.
However, if this persists when the hydraulic fluids are in place, then the electrical system of the car could be the reason.
Regardless, you can identify this problem with the use of an OBD 2 scanner. This process will ensure that the faulty component is identified.
You can check the fuse box and the wires that connect to the steering system for any issues.
Meanwhile, the optimal solution is to get your car examined by a professional car mechanic as any solution you arrive at during your checks may be temporal at best.
Fluid Leakages
Power steering fluid leaks will also result in a loss of power steering assist. The result of leaking power steering fluid is more than just a pool of oil in your driveway. There are things you should be concerned about more than the mess caused by the leak.
Power steering fluid leaks can reduce the efficiency of the steering system in a very short time and this could happen while driving. Just imagine this happening when you are on a trip.
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Steering fluid is typically red or pink. This color is the same as transmission fluid. The origin of the leak can help you identify a steering fluid leak.
A leaking steering fluid will form a puddle under your engine. Meanwhile, a transmission fluid leak will be near the center of the vehicle.
Your Car is Low on Fluids
It is a no-brainer that the hydraulic fluid must be in the right quantity for the optimal operation of a hydraulic power steering system or fluid electrical hybrid power steering system.
Therefore, ensure that your steering fluid is topped up at least once a year. You must not wait runs out and hampers your schedule. Using your car when it is low on fluids will only result in damage to the components of the power steering system.
How To Repair Power Steering Fluid Leaks?
Once there is a leak, the first step should be to find the origin and location of the leak. There could be several causes for your steering fluid to be leaking, but there are a few common suspects.
Examine the hoses that transport the steering fluid
They may be worn, cracked, or damaged. The seals are another source of weakness. Also, check for dangling clamps and screws.
If you discover any leaks, go to the fluid pump. Examine the main rack; sometimes the issue might be with the pump itself.
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Snapped Belt
If your assisted power steering system does not have an electrical power source, it will be powered by a belt connected to the crankshaft. Though it is uncommon, they do lose their integrity over time. The belt may snap as a result of this and may also slip.
When the belt is no longer connected to the crankshaft, it will not supply enough power to the pump. This will result in more energy being needed for each turn if the pump is not present.
Do well to replace the belt to avoid a repeat of the issue during reuse. The aforementioned pointers are the major ones why your car’s power steering assist system would develop a fault.
Therefore, the answers to your question of; How to fix a power steering assist fault have been given in this article. Do well to leverage them and derive utility from the usage of your car.
How To Reset the Power Steering Fault Code?
It is wise to not ignore any power steering fault message that is displayed on your car’s dashboard. Meanwhile, it can be reset by the following methods below.
- The simplest way to clear that alert is to restart your vehicle. Turn your entire vehicle on and off. This will reset all of your vehicle’s electrical components. Repeat the process two or three times to remove the power steering assist fault warning.
Please note that the problem does not go away by merely resetting the codes. The power steering assist fault alert is a system that provides early warning.
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It suggests that the power steering may fail. Therefore, resetting and ignoring it is not ideal and could be a very risky decision.
The fact is that the alert would return if no steps were taken or measures put in place to resolve the issue, Meanwhile, if you make it a habit to continuously reset any warning that appears, you may be on your way to losing your power steering.
How Often Should You Replace Your Power Steering Fluid?
The power steering fluid should be replaced every four years or 50,000 miles. However, if you inspect and notice that the power steering fluid is contaminated or brown, do not wait for four years, replace it immediately.
What Happens When You Drive With Low-Performance Steering Fluid?
This will only result in costly damage to your steering system as the low-power steering fluid will not effectively lubricate the system and cool it as required.
How Often Should Your Power Steering Fluid Be Flushed?
The manufacturer specifies the recommended timeframe. Unless you haul heavy loads, tow, or leave your vehicle idle for extended periods, the recommended period is ideal.
What Is The Cost of Changing A Car’s Power Steering Fluid?
The average cost of replacing power steering fluid is $120 although this may be based on car manufacturer recommendations.
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What Is The Cost of Repairing A Power Steering Assist Fault?
This depends on the faulty component. If the problem is caused by dirty or low fluid levels, the repair is relatively inexpensive, costing around $120.
However, the cost will be slightly higher if the problem is due to an electrical malfunction. In this case, repairs could cost between $300 or more depending on the electrical component that is damaged.
The worst of all is if the pump fails as steering fluid pumps can cost up to $1000 for some models.
Conclusion
By now you have understood the concept of the Power Steering Assist, how it works, the problems that may arise, why they may arise and how to mitigate them. Do well to take advantage of this article and adopt the measures in the proper maintenance of your cars.