What are the symptoms of a faulty steering gear?
2 Answers
Symptoms of a faulty steering gear: 1. Difficulty in steering wheel return: The steering wheel has an automatic return function. If the return speed is too slow, it indicates a malfunction in the return function, which usually occurs in the mechanical part of the steering system; 2. Steering wheel wobbling or pulling to one side: When driving on one side of a cambered road, the car naturally tends to pull to one side. If the pull is significantly stronger on larger cambers, it is likely caused by external factors. After ruling out tire pressure issues, it may be due to loosened or broken mechanical parts of the steering gear; 3. Uneven steering effort: When turning the steering wheel, the driver may feel that one side turns easily while the other side is heavy. This symptom is usually caused by leakage in the seal responsible for sealing the high-pressure chamber on one side or improper adjustment of the directional limit valve; 4. Steering gear oil leakage: Although oil leakage from the steering gear is a noticeable symptom, drivers often overlook this detail if they are not attentive. Therefore, when abnormal steering is noticed, check for oil leakage or seepage on the steering gear, which may be related to aging seals or oil pipes of the steering gear.
When the steering gear malfunctions, the most immediate sensation I experience while driving is that the steering wheel becomes extremely heavy, making turning feel like dragging a heavy load. Starting or making turns requires exerting full-body strength to rotate the wheel, sometimes accompanied by squeaking and grinding noises that sound like metal rubbing against metal. This isn't just a physical strain issue—it's a safety hazard because delayed steering response means you might not react in time during emergencies, such as avoiding pedestrians or sudden lane changes when the car might not respond as expected, increasing the risk of rear-end collisions. The steering gear is typically powered by a hydraulic system, and symptoms worsen if there's insufficient oil or a system leak. Neglecting regular maintenance can lead to part wear. I immediately took my car to a professional repair shop upon noticing the issue to prevent accidents on the road. Remember to regularly check oil pressure or oil levels as a preventive measure.
