What are the symptoms of a faulty power steering pump in a truck?
2 Answers
Truck power steering pump failure symptoms include stiff steering, heavy steering wheel, poor steering responsiveness, as well as unusual noises and vibrations. To ensure driving safety, it is essential to repair this component promptly to maintain the vehicle's normal handling performance. Power steering pumps are mainly divided into steering power pumps and brake booster pumps. The steering power pump, as the power source for vehicle steering, is the 'heart' of the steering system. The brake booster pump is a large-diameter vacuum chamber with a diaphragm (or piston) containing a push rod inside, dividing the chamber into two parts: one part is connected to the atmosphere, and the other part is connected to the engine intake pipe through a pipeline.
A while ago, while delivering goods in my truck, I noticed the steering wheel was unusually heavy, requiring significant effort to turn left or right. This was especially noticeable during low-speed turns, feeling like twisting iron. Later, I also heard a hissing air leak sound from the engine compartment, particularly loud when steering while stationary. Upon inspection, I found the power steering fluid reservoir level was low, with oil stains on the ground. The mechanic at the repair shop said the power steering pump's sealing ring had aged, causing oil leakage and insufficient hydraulic pressure, which naturally made steering heavy. He warned that if the pump wasn't replaced promptly, it could damage the steering gear and oil lines, leading to more expensive repairs. Now, I always check for oil stains on the ground before driving.
