What are the methods to adjust the lightness of hydraulic power steering?

[MiguelAnn]

By adjusting the pressure of the hydraulic system, the lightness of hydraulic power steering can be adjusted. Generally, there is a pressure adjustment device near the oil outlet of the power steering pump. There are mainly two types of power steering systems: one is mechanical hydraulic power steering, and the other is electronic power steering. Below is an introduction to hydraulic power steering: 1. With mechanical hydraulic power steering, the power steering pump does not stop running even when no assistance is needed, which can cause wear and tear on the engine. 2. Although electronic power steering does not affect the engine, its reverse rotation efficiency is lower than that of hydraulic power steering, and its response is also slower. Some mid-to-high-end cars use electronic power steering, and if the power adjustment is incorrect, the steering wheel may feel sluggish. However, due to the higher conversion efficiency of electronic power steering, it is gradually replacing mechanical hydraulic power steering.

[BellaAnn]

My old Passat's steering wheel suddenly became as light as a toy car. After checking around, I found it was due to insufficient hydraulic fluid. I opened the hood myself and located the fluid reservoir—the one marked 'PS'. I topped it up to the MAX line while the engine was cold. If the fluid is as dirty as soy sauce color, it's best to replace the entire fluid system, and remember to have someone help you turn the steering wheel left and right to bleed the air bubbles. Also, check the tension of the power steering pump belt; if it's too loose, steering will feel heavy. If there's still no improvement after these steps, it's likely a leaking steering gear seal or a failing power steering pump, and you'll need to visit a repair shop. Aging rubber parts are common in older cars, so don't push it until complete failure before fixing it.

[AlejandroLynn]

Last week, my neighbor's young lad noticed his Ford Focus' power steering felt lighter. I advised him to first check the oil pressure. Normal idle pressure should be above 80 bar; if it drops below 60, the pump is likely failing. For DIY checks, inspect the reservoir fluid level and oil quality—replace immediately if it's black or foamy. When bleeding the system, repeatedly turn the steering wheel lock-to-lock until the steering wheel vibration disappears. For vehicles over 100,000 km, also examine high-pressure hoses for leaks. Mechanical hydraulic systems are simple—most issues stem from fluid or seals. Don't attempt adjusting rack preload yourself; professional equipment is needed to accurately measure clearances.

[EmersynLynn]

If the hydraulic power steering feels lighter, first check the fluid: when the engine is cold, check the dipstick, and if it's below the MIN mark, add ATF fluid that meets the standard. When changing the oil, do it thoroughly—drain all the old oil before adding new oil, then start the engine and turn the steering wheel left and right to bleed air. Checking the belt is simple—press the middle with your finger, and if it sinks more than 1cm, adjust the tensioner. A humming noise while driving is often due to worn pump bearings, requiring a full replacement. If the steering gear is leaking oil, a roadside shop can replace the seals for around 500 yuan. For modified cars, pay attention to the installation angle of the flow divider valve—incorrect positioning can cause power steering issues. Don’t blindly trust online advice about adjusting the valve body screws; doing it wrong can completely ruin the steering gear.