5 Symptoms of Bad Power Steering Pump
Most cars today are equipped with power steering, which allows you to turn the steering wheel smoothly without too much force. Power steering works thanks to a pump that channels power steering fluid to the steering gearbox.
This pump and gearbox are responsible for providing the right amount of assistance so that the driver can turn the steering wheel with ease. Without a power steering pump, the power steering won’t work.
5 Most Common Symptoms of a Defective Power Steering Pump
Power steering pumps often last for many years, and in some cases, the entire life of the vehicle. But not all the time. At some point, it may become possible for your vehicle’s power steering pump to fail, and it may be obvious when this happens.
When this starts, there are a lot of signs you may notice. Below are five of the most common symptoms to look out for when your power steering pump fails.
1) Hard to turn the steering wheel
The most common symptom you will notice is difficulty turning the steering wheel. When turning (especially at low speeds), the steering wheel feels very stiff and requires a lot of force and effort to turn easily.
This prompts you to check the power steering pump (or its connections) as there is a high chance of an issue with one of them.
2) Rattling noise
You may hear a “whirling” noise when trying to turn the steering wheel. This indicates a problem with the power steering system.
There are many causes for the whirring noise, but a leaking power steering pump is one of them. Either that or your power steering fluid level is too low. However, you should check both as a precaution.
3) Screeching noise
When you start your car engine for the first time, you may hear a “squeak” noise. This noise lasts for about a minute after you start the car.
4) Moaning
That’s the worst sound of all. If you neglect to repair or replace an already broken power steering pump, you’ll eventually start to hear the moaning noise.
This usually happens when there’s a leak or insufficient fluid flowing through the pump, eventually destroying the entire power steering system. At this point, you’ll need to not only replace the pump, but possibly the entire system as well. 5) Chrome flakes in the fluid
Checking your power steering fluid can tell you a lot about the condition of your power steering pump. In addition to making sure you have enough power steering fluid in your system, you should also check the color and condition of the fluid. If you see a dark gray color or chrome flakes in the fluid, it means the pump may be damaged.