Is it necessary to replace the electronic steering gear if it gets water inside?

[LeJuniper]

It is not always necessary to replace the electronic steering gear if it gets water inside. As long as the dust cover of the steering gear tie rod is not damaged, it will not affect normal use, and no water will enter. If there is water inside, dry it out and apply grease for maintenance. Below is an extended introduction: 1. Inspect the steering gear: Regularly check the condition of the protective covers on both sides of the steering gear and the protective cover connecting the upper part of the steering gear to the universal cross joint. Damage to the protective covers is the main factor leading to early wear and damage of the steering gear. Once the protective cover is damaged, water, dust, and sand can enter the steering gear through the damaged area, destroying the lubricating grease film on the gear rack, leading to internal rust and abnormal wear. 2. Recommendation: If the internal water and sand are not removed immediately, the steering gear may be rendered useless in a short time. Therefore, inspect the condition of the dust cover at least once a month. If any damage is found, replace it immediately and conduct a comprehensive inspection and maintenance of the steering gear before replacement.

[StIsaac]

Electronic power steering doesn't necessarily require immediate replacement after water ingress - it depends on the specific situation. Once when my car went through water, the steering became less responsive. After inspection at the shop, the mechanic said water exposure could cause motor short circuits or sensor failure. They disassembled, cleaned, dried it thoroughly, and after functional testing confirmed it worked normally, saving replacement costs. If water only reached surface areas, promptly disconnecting the power and using a hair dryer or natural drying may suffice. However, with deep water exposure or signs of corrosion where components are damaged, replacement becomes mandatory to avoid steering failure risks while driving. Additionally, such electronic component water damage commonly occurs when fording deep water during heavy rain, so avoid flooded sections when possible and routinely check sealing rings. When uncertain, always seek professional diagnosis at repair shops - safe driving should always come first.

[Jess]

The electronic power steering system includes a motor and a control unit. As a tech enthusiast, I've tried similar repairs. Water ingress can easily cause short circuits or corrosion, leading to steering difficulty or failure. The first step is not to start the car; instead, remove the housing to clear any accumulated water, treat it with desiccant, and then test the circuit. If the components are intact, they can be repaired and reused, saving both money and hassle. However, if the control unit is severely damaged by water, it must be replaced entirely to prevent safety hazards. I recommend not attempting this yourself if you're a beginner; instead, seek help from a technician who can use professional tools for precise diagnostics. For prevention, installing waterproof covers or avoiding waterlogged areas can reduce the likelihood of malfunctions.

[McElizabeth]

Electronic power steering may malfunction if water enters, which is extremely dangerous. As a safety-conscious driver, I fully understand that failure can easily lead to accidents, especially at high speeds. It is imperative to stop immediately and seek repairs, avoiding any delays. Minor water ingress may be resolved with cleaning, but severe corrosion or short circuits will necessitate replacement—cost-cutting is not an option. Similar component failures are common during wet seasons, making regular checks of the vehicle's water resistance crucial. Prioritize safety during repairs; do not risk continuing to drive.