Can the steering gear leak oil?
2 Answers
The steering gear can leak oil because the rubber seals lose plasticizers due to prolonged exposure to alternating hot and cold temperatures. This results in the seals shrinking, hardening, and losing elasticity, and in severe cases, even cracking. Oil leakage is inevitable. Solutions for steering gear oil leakage: Repairing a leaking steering gear requires disassembly. However, if the disassembly and repair are not performed properly, it may not only fail to fix the issue but also cause more problems. In such cases, it is more reliable to replace the steering gear entirely. Most steering gear oil leaks are caused by corrosion and aging of the oil seals, especially in cars older than three years. Over time, rubber seals harden and age, exacerbated by prolonged exposure to temperature changes, worsening the condition. When seals shrink, harden, and lose elasticity, oil leakage occurs. If not replaced in time, prolonged leakage can lead to excessive wear of the steering gear rack, causing steering or driving noises. In severe cases, it can make steering heavier and result in loss of power steering. Causes of steering gear oil leakage: Oil leakage from the screw holes of the steering gear: This may occur if the screw holes are penetrated or if the screws used during repair are too long, causing the area to crack. Oil will then slowly seep out along the threads. Improper casting leading to oil leakage from the bottom cover: If the bottom cover surface is uneven or the guide pipes are not perpendicular, it can result in insufficiently tight riveting or misalignment of the guide pipes. Oil leakage due to the use of cardboard gaskets: Cardboard has a strong absorption capacity for oil. If the bolts are not tightened properly or unevenly, it can cause uneven placement of the side and bottom covers, leading to deformation and oil leakage.
The steering gear can indeed leak oil, an issue I've encountered in many cars I've driven, especially older vehicles with high mileage that have been in use for several years. The oil seals and gaskets inside the power steering system are made of rubber. Over time, they can age, crack, or the pipe connections may loosen, causing oil to slowly seep out. The most direct consequence of an oil leak is that steering becomes much harder, sometimes accompanied by creaking noises when turning the wheel, and even the power steering pump is more prone to failure. In severe cases, oil stains may drip onto the ground, particularly noticeable under the chassis after parking. I've replaced the seals twice before—repair isn't difficult, but safety comes first. A leaking steering system can suddenly become heavy or get stuck, significantly increasing the danger while driving. Therefore, it's advisable to regularly check the power steering fluid level and top it up or address any leaks promptly to avoid more complex issues down the line.
