What Causes Power Steering Failure After a Car Goes Through Water?
2 Answers
Brief difficulty in turning the steering wheel may occur when the car passes through water, due to the electronic power steering system coming into contact with water, causing temporary poor contact, or the steering gear encountering excessive resistance when turning in water, leading to momentary steering difficulty. The reasons for the steering wheel becoming heavier after wading through water are as follows: 1. When wading, it's inevitable for car components to get wet. At this time, it may be because the drive belt of the hydraulic power steering pump comes into contact with water, causing the belt to slip, thus reducing power steering assistance and making the steering wheel heavier; 2. Water entering the electric power steering components after wading may cause circuit malfunctions; 3. Water entering the steering gear during wading may lead to internal mechanical failures; 4. Moisture in the steering gear wiring harness connector causing temporary short circuits; 5. Water entering the suspension bushings, increasing steering resistance; 6. Power steering fluid mixed with water, reducing fluid functionality and increasing steering resistance.
Last time my car got flooded, the steering wheel suddenly became heavy. After checking for a long time, I found out it was because the control module for the electric power steering got short-circuited by water. This thing is hidden right under the steering wheel, and dirty water can seep in during flooding, potentially frying the circuits. Don't think only the engine is afraid of water—these precision electronic components are even more delicate. Once short-circuited, the entire power steering system fails. I remember there was a yellow steering wheel warning light on the dashboard. My advice? If you notice this, don't force it—pull over, turn off the power, and let it dry for at least half an hour. Sometimes it might recover once the moisture dries out. If not, call a tow truck immediately. Repairing electric power steering is much more expensive than hydraulic systems—replacing the module alone costs at least 2,000 yuan.
