What Causes Sudden Abnormal Noise in the Power Steering Pump?
2 Answers
The reasons for sudden abnormal noise in the power steering pump are: 1. Oil leakage in the power steering pump; 2. Loose installation of the power steering pump; 3. Poor lubrication of the power steering pump during cold starts; 4. Clogged filter with debris. Power steering pumps are mainly divided into steering power pumps and brake power pumps. The steering power pump, as the power source for vehicle steering, is the "heart" of the steering system. The brake power pump is a large-diameter vacuum chamber with a diaphragm (or piston) in the middle that contains a push rod, dividing the chamber into two parts: one part is connected to the atmosphere, and the other part is connected to the engine intake pipe through a pipeline.
As a friend who often researches car issues, I've found that there are quite a few reasons for sudden abnormal noises from the power steering pump. The most common one is insufficient or deteriorated power steering fluid. Dirty fluid can affect the pump's lubrication, leading to noise. Additionally, a loose or aged belt can produce squeaking sounds when rotating, which is more common in hot weather. Wear and tear of internal bearings or gears in the pump is also an issue, causing a buzzing noise upon startup, which can sound quite alarming. Air entering the system may result in gurgling sounds, as if there are bubbles in the fluid lines. In short, once abnormal noises occur, check if the fluid level is appropriate, add or replace the fluid if necessary, and inspect the belt's condition. Regular maintenance can reduce these problems, such as changing the power steering fluid every two years to extend the system's lifespan.
