What Causes Heavy Steering in Cars?
2 Answers
The main reasons for heavy steering in cars are as follows: 1. Lack of power steering fluid: Insufficient power steering fluid directly leads to heavier steering because the power steering pump requires adequate fluid to push the piston and provide assistance. When a vehicle lacks power steering fluid, it is necessary to check for oil leaks in the pipelines. If there are no leaks, check whether the fluid is dirty or if the pipelines are clogged, and then carry out repairs based on the specific issue. 2. Slippage or breakage of the power steering pump belt: The power steering pump relies on the belt to transmit the engine's power. If the belt slips, the pump cannot reach the required operating speed, resulting in heavier steering. If the belt breaks, the pump loses its power source entirely, causing a complete loss of power steering. In such cases, simply replacing the power steering pump belt will resolve the issue.
Recently, my car's steering has suddenly become much heavier, feeling like pushing against a wall—extremely strenuous. After inspection, the most common causes found are insufficient tire pressure leading to increased resistance or issues with the power steering system, such as low hydraulic fluid levels or leaks, making the steering wheel dead heavy. Additionally, wear and corrosion of steering components or abnormalities in the suspension system can also increase operational difficulty. Pay attention to unusual noises or stiffness when turning the wheel during daily driving to detect early signs. I recommend checking tire pressure yourself every month, keeping it at the standard value, and sending the car for timely repairs if any abnormalities are found—don’t wait until an accident happens on the highway. Safety comes first, after all. The steering system is the core of driving; protecting it saves money, hassle, and ensures the safety of your family's travels.
