What Causes Steering Gear Oil Leakage?
2 Answers
The causes of steering gear oil leakage are: 1. Penetration of screw holes; 2. Penetration of screw holes; 3. Use of yellow cardboard for gaskets; 4. Poor quality of oil seals; 5. Cracks in the housing or loose metal. The steering system is used to change or maintain the direction of the vehicle's movement or reverse, and its components include: steering control mechanism, steering gear, and steering transmission mechanism. The steering control mechanism consists of the steering wheel, steering shaft, and steering column. The method for replacing steering oil is: 1. Lift the vehicle and engage the handbrake; 2. Disconnect the return oil pipe; 3. Start the vehicle and turn the steering wheel left and right to drain the old steering oil, then add new oil until the steering oil color is relatively clean; 4. Reinstall the oil pipe in the reverse order and add new steering oil until the liquid level reaches the highest mark.
I've been driving for decades and have seen many cases of power steering leaks, which are usually caused by aging seals. The rubber seals in the vehicle's steering system endure long-term high-pressure fluid impact, eventually hardening and cracking, leading to oil leakage. Another possibility is damage to the power steering pump, where worn vanes or bearings inside can cause leaks. Additionally, loose or corroded and cracked oil pipe connections are common causes, especially when driving on bumpy roads. If there are cracks in the steering gear housing, they are often caused by impact in accidents. Oil leaks can make steering heavier and increase unusual noises, posing significant safety risks. Early repair is crucial; otherwise, the steering system may be completely damaged. Regular checks of the steering fluid level and cleaning the steering gear housing can prevent problems.
