What Causes the Steering Wheel to Become Stiff After a Car Goes Through Water?
2 Answers
Car steering wheel becomes stiff after going through water for the following reasons: 1. Steering lock: The steering lock in the car is engaged, preventing the steering wheel from turning. 2. Steering wheel: The steering wheel has already been turned one and a half or two full rotations, so it cannot be turned further. 3. Tires: The tires are stuck or jammed, making the car immobile. 4. Steering wheel bearing: Typically, car designs make the steering lighter at lower speeds and heavier at higher speeds. This is partly because vehicles tend to feel slightly more unstable at higher speeds than at lower speeds, and heavier steering helps maintain vehicle balance. The electric power steering system provides steering assistance directly through an electric motor, eliminating the need for components like the hydraulic power steering pump, hoses, hydraulic fluid, drive belt, and pulley mounted on the engine, saving energy and being environmentally friendly.
I've driven through flooded road sections many times and encountered situations where the steering wheel suddenly became extremely heavy and completely immovable after wading through water. The main reason is usually water entering the steering system, such as when the hydraulic power steering pump or oil pipelines get flooded. The mixture of oil and water loses its lubrication and pressure functions, making the steering wheel naturally difficult to turn. Wading through water can also cause rust and seizure of steering gears or short circuits in electronic power steering sensors, leading to control system failure. The risk is greater when the water depth exceeds half of the tire height, so try to avoid driving through waterlogged areas. If the steering wheel becomes stuck, stop the car immediately and don't force it to drive. Call a tow truck right away and send the vehicle to a professional repair shop for inspection and cleaning of parts. Otherwise, prolonged delay can damage more components and create safety hazards. For regular maintenance, periodically check the steering fluid and seals to prevent chronic leakage.