What Causes the Failure of a Car's Power Steering System?
2 Answers
Power steering system failure light may illuminate due to faults in the steering system sensor, steering gear, or power steering pump. It could also be caused by a lack of medium in the vehicle's power system leading to mechanical power failure, which can be resolved by replacing the internal power steering fluid. Below is a detailed introduction to the car's power steering system: Function: It utilizes the power generated by an electric motor to assist the driver in power steering. The system directly provides steering assistance through an electric power machine, eliminating the need for components such as a power steering oil pump, hoses, hydraulic oil, transmission belt, and pulley mounted on the engine, thereby saving energy and protecting the environment. Composition: The car's power steering system can improve vehicle stability by independently applying brakes to each wheel when the vehicle shows signs of instability and by participating in the engine system management to ensure driving safety. The car's power steering system mainly consists of a speed sensor, reduction mechanism, torque sensor, electric motor, and electronic control unit.
I've encountered quite a few causes for power steering failures. The most common is an aging power steering pump, which provides the force when turning the wheel. Over time, the pump wears out or burns out. Belt issues are also critical - if it's loose or broken, the power steering pump stops working. Don't overlook the fluid system either - leaking or dirty power steering fluid can cause insufficient system pressure. Damage to mechanical components like tie rods and ball joints can also add extra burden. Once when I was driving an old car on the highway, the steering wheel suddenly became very heavy, which scared me into a cold sweat. Upon inspection, I found a cracked oil line. I recommend checking for pump noise and fluid level during every maintenance service. If you hear any squeaking when turning, get it checked immediately - safety first. Remember the fluid change cycle too, check the hydraulic system condition every 30,000 kilometers or so.
