What Causes Heavy Steering in Cars?
2 Answers
Heavy steering in cars may be caused by damage to the power steering pump, steering gear failure, incorrect wheel alignment data, and other factors leading to increased steering effort. The main reasons for heavy steering in cars are the following 4 points: 1. Lack of power steering fluid: Insufficient power steering fluid directly results in heavier steering because the power steering pump requires adequate fluid to drive the piston and provide assistance. When a vehicle lacks power steering fluid, it is necessary to check for leaks in the system. If there are no leaks, check whether the fluid is dirty or if the lines are clogged, then proceed with repairs based on the specific issue. 2. Slipping or broken power steering pump belt: The power steering pump relies on the belt to transmit engine power. If the belt slips, the pump cannot reach the required operating speed, leading to heavier steering. If the belt breaks, the pump loses its power source entirely, resulting in a complete loss of steering assistance. In such cases, simply replacing the power steering pump belt is sufficient. 3. Motor failure: The motor is the final and most critical component in providing steering assistance. Its failure can cause the steering to become heavier or lose assistance entirely. During repairs, it is essential to check not only the wiring but also the sensors, control unit, fuses, relays, and other components for proper functioning. 4. Low front tire pressure: Low tire pressure increases the contact area between the tire and the road, which means greater friction resistance during driving or steering. To address this, first check for tire leaks. If there are no leaks, simply inflate the tires to the correct pressure.
My old car's steering became really heavy that time, which gave me a headache. I remember it was because the power steering fluid leaked, causing the steering system to lose power assistance. Heavy steering can also be due to tire pressure being too low, increasing the tire contact area and friction. If the steering gear or steering column is worn, there will be accompanying noises. For electric power steering, insufficient battery power or motor failure can weaken the assistance. Loose suspension components like shock absorbers or control arms can also affect steering flexibility. The worst is when steering suddenly becomes heavy at high speeds, greatly reducing handling and posing serious safety risks. I recommend first checking if the tire pressure is standard and the power steering fluid level is normal. If everything seems fine, take it to a professional repair shop to diagnose the power steering system and steering gear. Regular maintenance can prevent these issues, especially since long-term use without checks can lead to overlooked details.
