What are the symptoms of a steering gear failure?
2 Answers
Steering gear failure symptoms: 1. If the vehicle still pulls to one side when the tire pressure is normal and the road conditions are flat, it indicates a problem with the car's steering gear; 2. If there is abnormal noise when the car turns or a "clunking" sound when turning the steering wheel while stationary, it means there is an issue with the car's steering gear or tires; 3. If the steering wheel returns too slowly or fails to return automatically, it indicates damage to the car's steering gear; 4. Leakage in the car's steering gear, which is caused by aging of its seals or oil pipes. The specific cause needs to be checked by a professional.
As a seasoned driver with decades of experience, the most noticeable symptom when encountering steering gear failure is the steering wheel becoming abnormally heavy, especially during low-speed turns or parking, requiring immense effort to turn it. It feels like the power assist system has failed, as if the tires are stuck. Additionally, there's a disturbing metallic grinding noise when turning, which is quite unsettling. At high speeds, the steering wheel may slightly vibrate, and the car tends to drift off course, which is extremely dangerous. I once experienced a sudden steering failure on a rainy night, nearly hitting a guardrail—thankfully, I reacted quickly. These symptoms all point to power steering fluid leakage or internal gear wear. If not addressed promptly, it can lead to loss of control accidents, so it's crucial to visit a professional repair shop as soon as these signs appear.
