What Causes the Steering Wheel to Become Heavier After Losing Power Assistance?
3 Answers
Power steering pump failure, steering gear malfunction, lack of oil or air in the power steering system, and clogged return oil filter in the oil reservoir can all cause the steering wheel to become heavier after losing power assistance. Power steering pump failure: When the pump pressure of the power steering pump fails to meet the standard value, it can cause the steering wheel to lose power assistance and become heavier. It is necessary to inspect the flow control valve. If the flow control valve or safety valve leaks during driving, it can be repaired by grinding, and then check whether the spring of the safety valve has failed. Steering gear malfunction: When the oil pressure of the steering gear is too low, it can cause the steering wheel to lose power assistance and become heavier. It is recommended to seek professional repair services from a specialized manufacturer, and it is not advisable for car owners to handle it themselves. Lack of oil or air in the power steering system: When there is air in the car's steering system, not only does the steering become heavier, but there may also be noise during steering. It should be promptly sent to a repair shop to avoid greater damage. Clogged return oil filter in the oil reservoir: If the return oil filter in the oil reservoir is not maintained or replaced for a long time, it can easily become clogged, causing poor circulation of the power steering oil and resulting in the steering wheel losing power assistance and becoming heavier. The return oil filter should be inspected to determine if replacement is necessary.
A while ago, I encountered an issue where my steering wheel lost power assistance and became extremely heavy, making it feel like I was lifting bricks. The main reasons for this are usually a failure in the electric power steering system—such as a faulty module or torque sensor—or a short circuit blowing a fuse. For hydraulic power steering, it could be due to a worn-out power steering pump, leaked fluid, or a broken belt. Additionally, low battery voltage can cause the electric system to fail, or the steering gear might be jammed internally. When I noticed something was wrong on the highway, I immediately pulled over and drove slowly to a repair shop—only to find out it was due to an old, loose belt. Such failures are extremely dangerous, especially during sharp turns when losing control is more likely, so I recommend stopping to check as soon as you notice the issue, rather than waiting for a major accident. Regular maintenance, like checking power steering fluid levels and belt condition, can prevent many of these problems.
I enjoy tinkering with cars in my spare time. When the steering wheel suddenly becomes heavy, I first conduct a self-check. The simplest step is to pop the hood and inspect the power steering pump reservoir to see if the fluid level is adequate and the color is clear. If the fluid is dirty or leaking, it needs to be replaced. Next, check if the belt is loose or broken—if it's broken, the power assist will fail. For the battery, measure the voltage; if it's below 12V, it might affect the electric power steering. In the fuse box, if any related fuses appear burnt or blackened, replace them with new ones. However, I avoid tampering with electrical components—issues with the electric system, like faulty sensors or control units, could worsen if handled improperly. If all else fails, I recommend visiting a repair shop to scan for trouble codes with a diagnostic tool—professional handling is the most reliable. Regular fluid changes and inspections can significantly reduce this issue, saving money and ensuring peace of mind.
