What Are the Hazards of Power Steering Fluid Leakage?
2 Answers
Power steering fluid leakage can lead to heavy steering, abnormal noises, and steering wheel deviation during driving. If the leakage is severe, the steering gear may be rendered useless. If you notice small oil stains on the ground where the car is parked, it indicates that the steering gear leakage has reached a serious level and requires immediate repair at a service center. Minor oil seepage in the car's power steering system may still allow the car to be driven, but severe leakage can compromise driving safety. The causes of power steering fluid leakage include: Quality issues: If internal components of the steering gear have quality problems, repairs at a service center or 4S shop are necessary, and a new steering gear may need to be replaced if required. Aging components: If the sealing rings inside the steering gear age, oil seepage can occur, necessitating the replacement of new parts. Accidents or impacts: Damage to the steering gear due to traffic accidents or collisions can also result in fluid leakage. About the car's power steering system: The car's power steering system is a crucial component that controls the direction of the vehicle's movement, whether forward or backward. The steering systems in cars are mainly categorized into mechanical steering gears, electric power steering gears, mechanical hydraulic steering gears, and electro-hydraulic steering gears. The steering system assists drivers in achieving precise control during turns, ensuring the safety of the vehicle's operation.
I've been driving trucks for twenty years, and power steering fluid leaks are no joke. The steering wheel gets progressively heavier, requiring a lot of effort to turn, especially in rainy conditions when tire traction is poor, making it prone to losing control. The scariest part is if the fluid suddenly runs out—on the highway, the steering wheel can lock up completely, becoming impossible to turn. The leaked fluid also corrodes rubber components on the chassis, damaging tie rods and ball joints in the process. Last time, a colleague's truck had its steering gear seize due to a leak—luckily, they were moving slowly in the factory area. If you spot fluid stains on the ground, get it checked immediately. Replacing a seal costs just a few dozen bucks, but waiting until the steering gear wears out could set you back thousands.
