What are the signs of a faulty steering gear?
2 Answers
Signs of a faulty steering gear: unstable steering while driving, increased free play in the steering wheel, difficulty in the steering wheel returning to center, understeer or oversteer, steering wheel vibration, heavy and laborious steering, unusual noises from the steering wheel, etc. The steering gear, commonly known as the steering box, is the most critical component for the steering function of a car and an essential guarantee for driving safety. Maintenance and care for the steering gear: 1. When driving on rough and uneven roads, the owner should slow down to reduce the load on the steering gear; 2. Regular inspections of the car's steering gear should be conducted, especially checking for any damage to the protective boots on both sides; 3. The owner should avoid turning the steering wheel to its extreme limit, especially when turning in place, leaving some margin to ensure the hydraulic steering system operates normally.
As someone who has been driving for years, I think the most obvious sign of a failing steering gear is when the steering wheel suddenly becomes extremely heavy, like trying to turn a block of stone. The last time my car had this issue, the steering wheel would also squeak when turning, and the buzzing noise was particularly annoying. Driving during that period felt like going to war, especially on the highway, where the steering wheel had a slight vibration and the steering precision deteriorated, failing to return to center after turns. I immediately pulled over to check and found that the power steering pump might be malfunctioning. I recommend not ignoring these signals and making it a habit to regularly top up the power steering fluid and check if it has turned black or has bubbles, as this can prevent major issues. Safety comes first—if you notice any signs, get it checked at a professional shop immediately; don't wait until an accident happens.
