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How to Fix Power Steering Assist Fault – Problem Solving Guide

Let’s be honest with each other that once we get used to the power steering, we can’t use the standard vehicle that doesn’t include it. Many old car models don’t have the option of power steering. People tend to believe that only luxurious cars have the facility of the same. But nowadays, it is not a luxury, and it has become a necessity instead! Almost every new models provide power steering.

Because of the ease provided by the power steering assist to the driver, it becomes a significant issue when it doesn’t work correctly. The problem regarding power steering can be the most irritating and frustrating one. Imagine if you suddenly lost power steering in your vehicle! Now, you may understand what we are talking about! In this article, we will talk about the power steering assist fault and how to fix or reset it.

How to Fix Power Steering Assist Fault?

Before we start discussing the solutions, it is good to know and understand which things may avoid the power steering problems of your vehicle. A good engine belt, a right power steering pump, clear passageways, and the appropriate amount of clean power steering fluid can help your power steering to work smoothly. If any of these things are not in control or handled inappropriately, then the chances of having a fault increases. So, make sure that everything is under control before going further.

Typical Power Steering Problems and Their Fixes

Your car’s power steering is the only thing with whom you always stay connected. Neither the high-rated tires nor the latest engines, but the power steering! It is something you can control with your hands and on time. So, whether it is electrical or hydraulic, the power steering requires special attention and proper maintenance from time to time.

Problem 1: Rigid or Unresponsive Electric Steering

This problem is not related to the low power steering fluid. It is a non-hydraulic failure and is related to the electrical components of the power steering. When the steering becomes stiff or rigid and couldn’t move, the electric assist mechanism stops responding. So whenever you face this kind of situation while driving, firstly, you have to arrange a code reader or the scanning device. Such devices will help you and point you in the right direction.

If you don’t have such devices, then you may have to invest some time to find the root cause of the issue. You can start by checking your fuse box and figuring out the obvious faults. Examine every wire and other connections. Check the voltage of your battery. If everything is okay, then shut the car off and restart it. Repeat this process two to three times.

Restarting your car may help to reset the electrical components, and your electric steering might come back. However, even if it solves the issue at that time, it will not be a permanent solution. Get the components examined by a professional mechanic as soon as possible to avoid such problems in the long run.

Electric Steering

Problem 2: Loss of Power Steering Assist

If you feel that you are stuck in quicksand and you have to put five times more effort to make a simple turn, then there is a possibility that the steering has lost its Hydraulic power. At this point, you need to check the fluid level. However, it is not advisable to check the fluid when the car is cold. Run it for a few minutes and then get the most accurate assessment. This way, you will get the actual amount of fluid available in your power steering system.

If you face such an issue while driving, check the power steering fluid reservoir. If you find out that the fluid level is deficient, try to figure out the reason behind it. There are chances to have cracks in the hydraulic lines or having the defective components, which eventually became the reason for low power steering fluid.

Power steering

Problem 3: Grinding Noise During Turns

Such types of irritating and unpleasant noises are not considered a big issue when it comes to the car’s power steering system. However, these noises are indications that the problems are near or can be generated at any time. Most of the time, these problems are related to the belt drive. So, first thing first, inspect! Check your power steering pump pulley thoroughly or take the help of a professional mechanic.

You can also get it fixed with the help of your friend. Use a jack to lift your car up and have one person turn the wheel. At the same time, the other person should inspect the power steering belt. If you observe that the belt slips, you’ll need to tighten or adjust accordingly. Following this routine with the power steering belt, just make sure that the car is shut off.

Grinding Noise During Turns

Problem 4: Leaking Fluid

You may not know the side effects of leaking the power steering fluid leaks. It is an issue that should not be taken for granted. A leak may cause some serious concerns regarding the safety and efficiency of your car’s power steering system. So, when you find out that there is a smooth and dark brown or black fluid under your vehicle, it’s time to repair the parts. Generally, it smells like burning oil, but it is not the oil. It may have a specific odor that can be recognized by automobile experts or mechanics.

Try to figure out the actual problem. The leaks are usually caused by some old, torn-out, or worn-out hose that feeds the steering pump. You should also check the clamps that may get loose. If all these things are okay, then examine the power steering pump. The whole rack should be checked once because sometimes the main issue is the pump itself.

Leaking Fluid

These are the most common power steering issues. We hope these tips and tricks will help you identify and fix the power steering assist fault. For more information, suggestions, and potent articles about car problems, stay tunes. We are happy to help and always look forward to providing remedies to your queries related to automobiles.

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