What Are the Reasons for Difficulty in Turning the Car Steering Wheel?
4 Answers
There are several reasons why a car's steering wheel may be difficult to turn: 1. Insufficient power steering fluid. Power steering fluid is a medium oil used in the car's power steering pump, serving to transmit steering force and provide cushioning. The fluid needs to be replaced regularly, and when it is insufficient, the steering will feel heavy. 2. Low tire pressure. Low tire pressure increases the contact area between the tires and the road surface, leading to greater friction and making turning more difficult, resulting in a heavy steering wheel that is not conducive to driving. 3. Malfunction of the steering gear or power steering pump. The steering gear and power steering pump are crucial components affecting car steering; any issues with these parts can cause steering difficulties. Problems such as universal joint issues, chassis suspension stabilizer bar problems, or plane bearing issues should not be overlooked. 4. Overly tight bearing fit. If the rolling bearings and sliding bearings connected to the steering system are too tightly fitted, it can lead to poor lubrication of the bearings, causing jamming. It is advisable to conduct targeted checks on the mechanical parts and the power steering system, or to inspect for any leaks, air intake, or damage to sealing components.
I haven't been driving for long, but it's really frustrating when the steering wheel suddenly becomes heavy. I remember that trip to the countryside—turning the wheel felt like pulling a boulder. A friend suggested it might be an issue with the power steering system, like low hydraulic fluid or an aging pump. Low tire pressure can also cause this, increasing friction and making steering harder. When I got home, I checked with a tire pressure gauge and found the right front tire was only at 15 psi, over 20 below the standard. After inflating it, steering became much easier. If it's not the tire pressure, you should also check if the steering column bearings are rusted or if there's an electrical fault. For electric vehicles, the electric power assist motor might be faulty. This issue shouldn't be ignored—driving long distances with it can be exhausting and dangerous. It's safest to get it checked at a professional shop. Don't skimp on safety; it's always the top priority.
Having driven for decades, I've encountered the issue of a non-responsive steering wheel several times. Mostly, it's due to power steering problems—either the hydraulic pump is leaking, the pipes are clogged, or the fluid has completely drained, leading to a loss of power assistance. Short circuits in the electric power steering's motor or control module are also common culprits. Additionally, insufficient tire pressure or uneven tire wear can increase friction, making steering difficult. Problems in the suspension system, such as aging springs or damaged ball joints, can also affect the steering wheel. For regular maintenance, I always check tire pressure and power steering fluid, and change fluids periodically to prevent aging. Older cars especially require attention to the power steering system—any squeaking noise should be a warning sign. It's best to visit a reliable repair shop for a check-up rather than forcing it, as it can harm both the car and the driver.
As an ordinary office worker, a heavy steering wheel makes my daily commute frustrating. Common causes include power steering system failure, low or leaking hydraulic fluid, making steering less responsive. Sometimes it's tire issues - insufficient pressure or too many potholes increasing friction. It happens more often in winter or rainy days. Simply check the tire pressure first; if abnormal, just inflate them. If that doesn't work, visit a repair shop to inspect the power steering pump or steering gear. Ignoring these minor issues long-term may lead to loss of control during highway driving or turns. My family car had this problem, and timely handling made driving much more worry-free.
