What Causes the Heavy Steering Wheel in Buick Excelle?
2 Answers
Reasons for the heavy steering wheel in Buick Excelle: 1. Insufficient power steering fluid. Power steering fluid is the main source of power that drives the car. Therefore, when the power steering fluid is insufficient, the car naturally has difficulty moving, let alone turning to change direction. 2. Contaminated power steering fluid. If the car has difficulty turning the steering wheel, it may be due to the power steering fluid being mixed with unclean gases or impurities, preventing the fluid from functioning properly and driving the car. 3. Issues with the power steering system. The steering wheel and the power steering system are closely related. When the steering wheel becomes heavy, it indicates poor internal circuit contact within the power steering system.
I have 20 years of driving experience and have encountered the issue of heavy steering in the Buick Excelle. This is mostly due to a fault in the steering system. The most common cause is the power steering pump not functioning properly. In older cars, prolonged use can lead to internal wear and oil leakage in the pump, resulting in insufficient hydraulic pressure, making the steering wheel harder to turn. It's also necessary to check the power steering fluid reservoir. If the fluid level is too low or the oil has deteriorated and thickened, it will affect the power steering performance, and the fluid should be replaced promptly. Another possible cause is a loose belt. The power steering pump is driven by a belt, and if the belt is loose or worn, it can slip, leading to reduced power assistance. Don't forget to check the tire pressure as well. If the front tire pressure is low, the steering resistance increases, making the steering wheel naturally heavier. If the problem persists after ruling out these issues, it might be due to internal gear jamming or wear in the steering gear, requiring professional disassembly and inspection at a repair shop. Heavy steering affects control and safety, especially on highways, so I recommend getting it checked at a 4S shop as soon as the issue is noticed—don't delay. Regular maintenance of the steering system can prevent this problem, such as checking the fluid and belt every 20,000 kilometers, which saves both hassle and money.
