4 Symptoms of Low Power Steering Fluid
Has steering your vehicle felt more “difficult” lately? Do you hear noises when turning the wheel? Your power steering fluid may be dangerously low.
Ignoring symptoms of low fluid can lead to the malfunction of critical steering components and even complete steering failure while driving! Read on to learn the common warning signs of low power steering fluid.
Low Power Steering Fluid Symptoms
Generally speaking, a loss of power steering fluid tends to be associated with several potential secondary symptoms, a number of which can quickly get your attention. Those familiar with these symptoms can often pinpoint a low power steering fluid level as the source of their issues almost immediately.
Here are several of the most common signs associated with insufficient power steering fluid levels.
1) Squealing Noises When Turning
One of the most common symptoms of low power steering fluid levels is a noticeable high-pitched whining that is heard when turning. This noise occurs when fluid levels are low enough to allow the introduction of air into the power steering system.
Noises of this type should not be ignored, as they indicate excess strain being placed upon a vehicle’s power steering pump and internal components. Power steering pump replacement isn’t cheap so be sure to investigate the cause right away.
2) Oily Stains Beneath Vehicle
One visual clue associated with a potential power steering fluid leak is the sudden appearance of oil-like stains in your driveway or garage. While such a sight does not necessarily mean your vehicle’s power steering system is the culprit, it does signify the need to check your vehicle’s power steering fluid level, along with that of all other applicable fluids.
3) “Jerking” Feeling In Steering Wheel When Turning
Another common indicator of low power steering fluid levels is an inconsistent feel in a vehicle’s steering wheel when cornering. This can best be described as a noticeable “jerking” of the steering wheel as it is maneuvered.
It might also feel as if the steering wheel tries to bind under rotation. This symptom is often observed in parallel with the occurrence of odd whining noises heard when cornering, as described above.
4) Burnt Fluid Smells
In certain cases, it might actually be possible to smell the burnt odor associated with overheated power steering fluid. This smell tends to be especially evident if escaping fluid has been blown beneath a vehicle’s undercarriage, presenting a larger area of contamination. If matters progress to this point, a substantial leak likely exists.
What Causes Power Steering Fluid to Get Low?
The most common cause of power steering fluid loss is the occurrence of a leak within the power steering system itself.
Leaks can show up at multiple points within this system, including at pump seals, rack seals, or along any of the system’s hoses. Leaks of any size eventually contribute to noticeable power steering fluid loss, with significant leaks being especially troubling.
It’s worth mentioning that power steering fluid is not “burnt” like one might expect of engine oil. This is important to consider, as this leaves the presence of a leak as the only true potential source of power steering fluid loss. Therefore, dwindling fluid levels should be investigated as soon as they become evident.
Checking the Fluid Level
Here’s how to properly check the level of your vehicle’s power steering fluid:
Step-1) Turn Off Vehicle
Prior to checking your vehicle’s power steering fluid level, turn the engine off, and allow 1-2 minutes for fluid levels to settle.
Step-2) Locate Power Steering Fluid Reservoir
Next, locate your vehicle’s power steering fluid reservoir. This reservoir is often composed of plastic, and is cylindrical or slightly oblong in shape, depending upon the vehicle’s manufacturer.
In certain cases, this reservoir will be mounted directly to the power steering pump. However, some reservoirs are mounted remotely.
Step-3) Check Level
Now, remove the cap to your vehicle’s power steering reservoir. In most cases, a dipstick will be attached to the cap’s underside.
Analyze the fluid level as it is measured on the dipstick itself. This level should ideally fall between the dipstick’s “Min” and “Max” stampings. Levels should be topped off to within this threshold with the proper power steering fluid (check your owner’s manual), should your findings indicate out-of-range readings.
How Often Should You Check the Fluid Level?
At the very minimum, power steering fluid levels should be assessed at every scheduled maintenance interval. Under such circumstances, you might wish to check your car’s power steering fluid level once every 1-2 weeks.
Consequences of Driving With Insufficient Power Steering Fluid
Without sufficient lubrication, a vehicle’s power steering pump can quickly overheat, thereby necessitating replacement and full system maintenance.
It should also be noted that attempting to drive without sufficient power steering fluid can cause unexpected loss of hydraulic pressure within the power steering system. In turn, your ability to corner and navigate turns can be impeded, posing a significant safety risk. This is especially true if system response is lost during periods of spirited driving.