What Causes the Steering Wheel to Be Stiff and Hard to Turn?
2 Answers
Reasons why the steering wheel is hard to turn: 1. Overloaded power steering system: The power steering system uses an electric power assist form. Repeatedly turning the steering wheel while stationary or at low speeds places a significant load on the power steering system, which can easily cause the steering gear to overheat and enter protection mode, resulting in heavy steering. It usually returns to normal after cooling down, so this is a normal phenomenon. 2. Steering wheel lock: Most vehicles automatically lock the steering wheel after the engine is turned off, which is a simple anti-theft feature. This situation does not occur every time the vehicle is started. Generally, after starting the vehicle with the key, the steering wheel will naturally unlock.
I was driving my little minivan to and from work when suddenly the steering wheel became extremely stiff and wouldn't turn, which was genuinely frightening. Later, a knowledgeable mechanic told me this might be due to a problem with the hydraulic power steering pump, such as running out of fluid or the pipes being clogged with dirt. Additionally, if the vehicle is an older model or frequently driven on rough roads, the joints in the steering linkage might have rusted or lack lubrication, causing them to jam when turned. Cars with electric power steering can experience similar issues, like sensor failures or the motor not providing enough assistance. I've tried temporary fixes, such as adding some power steering fluid or adjusting the tire pressure to the standard value, but these only provide short-term relief. Continuing to drive like this not only causes arm fatigue but also risks complete steering failure, which is dangerous. So, if you encounter this situation, don't tough it out—take your car to a professional repair shop immediately for a thorough inspection to eliminate any hidden dangers before driving home with peace of mind.
