9 reasons why your steering wheel is suddenly hard to turn
A hard-to-turn steering wheel can make driving very uncomfortable and potentially dangerous. The problem is usually most noticeable at low speeds, where drivers make the most steering input. But why is this happening? Let’s take a look at some of the most common reasons why your steering wheel might suddenly become hard to turn.
Causes of a hard-to-turn steering wheel
It’s important to understand the possible reasons why your steering wheel is hard to turn. With this knowledge, you can identify and fix the real problem more quickly than without the information.
1) Too little power steering fluid
Probably the most common cause of a stiff steering wheel when turning is not having enough power steering fluid in the system. This is usually caused by a leak in the pressure hose area. The hose can tear or come loose and allow fluid to leak out.
Power steering fluid is important to pressurize the system and lubricate the pump. As the fluid level drops, it will become harder to turn the steering wheel.
Your car can still be driven, but it’s important to repair the leak quickly. If ignored for an extended period of time, your power steering pump may eventually overheat and fail, requiring a costly repair. If a quick check reveals that your power steering fluid is full, consider these possible causes:
2) Tire Pressure is Too Low
Low tire pressure can have a dramatic effect on your car’s steering, especially at low speeds. Incorrect tire pressure increases road resistance and makes steering difficult.
A slight drop in pressure (1-3 PSI) may not make much of a difference, but a larger drop (say, 5-10 PSI or more below the recommended tire pressure) will make a noticeable difference in steering difficulty.
For example, if the sticker on the inside of your driver’s door frame says the recommended tire pressure is 34 PSI, a drop in pressure to about 24-29 PSI may cause steering problems. Keep in mind that even a slight drop in pressure can affect your fuel economy and tire wear. Therefore, always try your best to maintain proper tire pressure.
3) Faulty steering rack
The rack is made up of a pinion and a rack, which are connected to the steering wheel via a universal joint and a shaft. Normal driving can cause the steering rack to wear and tear over time.
A common sign of a bad steering rack is a stiff steering wheel immediately after starting the car. In addition, you may hear a squealing or squeak when turning the steering wheel fully to the left or right. As the engine runs and warms up, the lubricant in the rack distributes more evenly, which may temporarily reduce its stiffness.
4) Wheel Alignment Issues
If the wheels are misaligned, the steering wheel may be difficult to turn. There are several alignment factors, but the one that is most likely to affect steering effort is toe alignment.
Alignment refers to how much the tires rotate inward or outward when viewed from above. Excessive toe-in (tires pointing inward) is the most common alignment problem that causes stiff steering.
5) Power Steering Pump Failure
The power steering pump generates the pressure required for normal, effortless steering wheel operation. If this pump fails, it will be very difficult to turn the steering wheel, especially at low speeds. A complete failure of the pump won’t stop the steering wheel from moving, but it will require significantly more force to turn, especially in a heavier vehicle.
However, before assuming that the pump is faulty, it is important to verify that the wiring harness that connects to the pump is securely attached (by wiggling it) and shows no visible signs of damage. This connection point is a common cause of misdiagnosis.
6) Thick or Contaminated Power Steering Fluid
Like any fluid in your car, power steering fluid can deteriorate over time. If not changed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, it can thicken or become contaminated, compromising its ability to effectively lubricate the system. Signs that your power steering fluid has a problem include:
1. A dark, dirty appearance (new power steering fluid is usually clear or light amber in color)
2. A thick consistency
3. A burning smell
4. A squeaking noise when you turn the steering wheel
7) Damaged or worn V-belt
The fan belt in many vehicles has to do a lot of work to drive various components in the car, including the power steering pump. If this belt becomes damaged, broken, or loose, it can affect steering.
The most common signs that your V-belt has a problem are:
1. A loud squeaking noise coming from around the engine, especially when starting or turning the car
2. Steering becomes increasingly difficult while driving
3. A broken belt can prevent you from steering properly and leave you stranded, so it’s best to replace a worn belt before it breaks completely.
8) Faulty power steering control module
In modern vehicles with electric power steering, the control module controls the steering assist. If this module fails, it can cause steering difficulties. Signs of a faulty power steering control module include:
1. Intermittent power steering failure
2. Warning lights on the dashboard (usually steering wheel symbols, EPS, TCS, or check engine light)
3. Steering that is sometimes good and sometimes difficult
4. Although an OBD2 scanner can be used to check for specific trouble codes, diagnosing and repairing problems with a power steering control module should usually be left to a professional.
9) Damaged Ball Joint
Ball joints are a vital component of a car’s suspension system that connects the steering knuckle to the control arm. When worn or damaged, they can not only make steering difficult, but can also be dangerous if they fail completely.
Signs of a faulty ball joint include:
1. A rattling noise when turning or going over bumps
2. Car pulling to one side
3. Steering wheel vibration
4. Uneven tire wear
Preventive Maintenance Tips for Your Steering System
Tip-1) Regularly Check Fluid Levels
Inspect your power steering fluid level monthly. Top up if necessary, using the type of fluid recommended in your owner’s manual.
Tip-2) Check Tire Pressure Monthly
Check tire pressure at least once a month, adjusting to the recommended PSI. Try to do this in the morning before driving for best accuracy.
Tip-3) Get Regular Alignment Checks
Have your wheel alignment checked annually or every 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. If your area has particularly rough roads, you may need to have it checked more frequently. Keep in mind that this is only to “check” alignment; not necessarily having it adjustment as part of alignment service.
Tip-4) Listen for Unusual Noises
Pay attention to any new squealing, grinding, or clunking sounds when turning. If you hear anything unusual, have it checked promptly.
Tip-5) Follow Fluid Change Schedule
Replace your power steering fluid according to your vehicle’s maintenance schedule, typically every 50k – 80k miles. With some vehicles, there is no set replacement schedule but the fluid should still be visually inspected from time to time. If it looks very dark, dirty, or a thick consistency, it’s time to replace it.