Whether you love cruising down winding roads or simply need to navigate city streets, you understand the importance of precise steering. If your steering wheel feels stiffer than usual or starts sticking, it can easily get in the way of your car making turns as it should. Not only is this a frustrating performance issue, but it can also be a safety hazard. Visit the mechanics at your local AAMCO Minnesota auto repair shop and we’ll help get your car back to its optimal performance.
Your Power Steering Fluid is Low
In most modern cars, power steering is a hydraulic system. That means it relies on fluid to operate properly. In this case, you’re looking at power steering fluid, which should be replaced at regular intervals to ensure your car’s power steering continues to work properly. Consult your owner’s manual for recommended intervals and pay attention to any signs of trouble like a stiff steering wheel.
As a Hydraulic System, Your Car’s Steering Relies on Adequate Power Steering Fluid
Power steering fluid is meant to both pressurize the system and lubricate the pump. If one of the hoses gets cracked or otherwise develops a leak, you may find your power steering fluid is too low. This is one of the most common reasons for a stiff steering wheel, so have your mechanic inspect the system for leaks and refill the power steering fluid if necessary.
Your Power Steering Fluid is Dirty
Just like engine oil or transmission fluid, power steering fluid can become thick and dirty with use. This is thanks to contaminants it picks up while circulating through the power steering system. While this thickening is normal, if the fluid becomes too thick, it can cause a stiff steering wheel or other power steering problems.
Thickened Power Steering Fluid Can’t Flow as Easily
One role of the power steering fluid is to lubricate the power steering pump. If it becomes too thick, it cannot properly lubricate that and other parts. This is why you may notice a stiff steering wheel if your power steering fluid is dirty. Luckily, a simple power steering fluid replacement should help smooth out the motion of your steering wheel again.
Problems with the Steering Rack
As part of the power steering system, a pinion and steering rack help facilitate the movement of your steering wheel. These parts are attached to the steering wheel by u-joints and shafts. All of these parts will naturally wear down with time and use, but if you notice a stiff steering wheel, it could mean it’s time to replace the steering rack.
Pay Attention if Your Steering Wheel is Stiff When You First Start Your Car
If the steering rack is behind your steering wheel problems, you’re likely to notice stiffness when you first start your car. As you drive, the steering wheel will gradually loosen and move more easily as the car warms up, making it easier to lubricate the moving parts.
Worn Out Serpentine Belt
It’s important to keep an eye on the health of your car’s belts, including the serpentine belt. If the serpentine belt is damaged, loose, or cracked, it can cause a stiff steering wheel. Without replacing the serpentine belt, you may suddenly lose the ability to steer at all if the belt fails.
Several Important Systems Rely on a Healthy Serpentine Belt
The serpentine belt is important to the functioning of several systems, not only power steering. If this is the problem you’re dealing with, you may also notice issues with your car’s air conditioning or cooling systems. It’s important to have a trusted mechanic inspect your vehicle as soon as possible if you suspect you may need a new serpentine belt.
You Need a New Power Steering Pump
In order for power steering fluid to properly circulate through the system and allow motion of your steering wheel, it relies on the power steering pump. Over time, this pump will wear out and can fail, making it difficult to turn your steering wheel.
The Steering Wheel Relies on Pressure Generated By the Power Steering Pump
If the power steering pump is your problem, you’re most likely to notice a stiff steering wheel at lower speeds. You’re also likely to have more difficulty turning your steering wheel the heavier your car is. Having your power steering pump replaced isn’t a cheap car repair, so it’s important to have a trusted mechanic inspect your power steering system to diagnose the right repairs.
Is Your Steering Wheel Sticking? Let AAMCO Minnesota’s Mechanics Help
If your car isn’t steering as smoothly as it should, it’s time to schedule a power steering repair. Visit your local AAMCO Minnesota auto repair shop and we’ll help ensure your steering wheel can turn smoothly again. Give us a call or easily schedule an appointment with us online today!