Stop by Buellton Garage if you are having problems steering your automobile. If the problems are severe, have your automobile towed to our shop. Difficulty steering can point to a problem with the power steering pump. We can inspect and test the pump to see if it needs to be replaced. Let’s talk about the signs of a faulty pump below so you know specifically what to look for in your automobile.
Strange Noises When Steering
If your car, truck, or utility vehicle has started to complain every time you turn the steering wheel, the pump is likely going bad. When we say complain, we mean that the automobile makes groaning and moaning sounds when you turn the wheel. The tighter you turn the wheel the louder the sounds will get. This is a common sign that you have a malfunctioning pump underneath the hood.
Difficulty Turning the Wheel
As the title of this blog post mentions, it can be difficult to turn the steering wheel and control your automobile if the steering pump is going bad. This is because the pump circulates the hydraulic power steering fluid through the system. If it is failing to do so, you will not have the assistance of the fluid when you turn the steering wheel. Consequently, the wheel will be extremely tight and difficult to turn.
Unresponsiveness to Steering
You may also find that in severe cases of a malfunctioning steering pump, your vehicle will fail to respond when you steer. In other words, you may turn the wheel to make a right turn but the vehicle will continue to go straight. This, obviously, makes it extremely difficult to control your automobile.
Leaking Power Steering Fluid
Another sign that the steering pump is malfunctioning and, on top of this, too old, is leaking power steering fluid on your garage floor. The color of this fluid is red, so you will see red spots or puddles underneath the engine. You can check the power steering fluid level in the reservoir to see if it is too low. If it is, the pump is most likely leaking fluid.
Silver Flakes in the Steering Fluid
Finally, if you see silver in the steering fluid when you check its level, the steering pump is dissolving into the fluid. This is definitely a sign that you need a new steering pump.
Buellton Garage in Buellton, CA, is here to help, so give us a call today to set up a service appointment for your automobile.