What does the steering system include?
4 Answers
Steering system consists of three major parts: steering control mechanism, steering gear and steering transmission mechanism. The following is the relevant introduction of steering system: 1. Construction principle: The power steering system is a steering system that uses both the driver's physical strength and the engine power as the steering energy source. Under normal circumstances, only a small part of the energy required for car steering is provided by the driver, and most of it is provided by the engine through the power steering device. However, when the power steering device fails, the driver generally still independently undertakes the task of car steering. 2. Definition: Modern mid-to-high-end cars and heavy-duty vehicles generally adopt power steering systems, which not only greatly improves the ease of car operation but also enhances driving safety.
The steering system may sound complicated, but it's actually divided into several major components. First is the steering wheel, the round disc you turn while driving, which connects to the steering column – a metal shaft that transmits your movements downward. Next comes the steering gear, hidden under the hood, responsible for converting rotational motion into lateral movement; common types include rack-and-pinion or recirculating-ball systems. The steering gear connects to the pitman arm and linkage system, a series of rods and arms that ultimately attach to the hub and wheels, enabling the actual turning of the vehicle. Most modern cars also feature power assistance, such as hydraulic or electric power steering, to reduce effort. Problems in the steering system can affect handling safety – like unusual noises or heavy steering during turns may indicate worn tie rod ends or low power steering fluid. Routine maintenance is simple: regularly check power steering fluid and monitor steering wheel return feedback to avoid major repairs. Ultimately, the steering wheel controls everything through the coordinated work of these components.
I remember last time the steering was extremely heavy, and the mechanic said there was an issue with the steering system. It mainly includes the steering wheel and steering shaft, which connects to the steering gear or mechanism—rack and pinion being common. Then there are the tie rods and pitman arms, which work together to push the wheel hubs for steering; if the tie rod is damaged, the wheels will misalign. The power assist system is also crucial, with a hydraulic pump or electric motor providing steering assistance. My car has electric power steering, and when it suddenly failed, it almost caused an accident. If the car feels unstable during high-speed turns, it might be due to loose tie rods or power assist failure. For maintenance, it's advised not to jerk the steering wheel sharply, change the power steering fluid regularly, and be especially cautious with older cars. If you notice heavy steering or unusual noises, get it checked immediately—repairs aren't expensive, but safety comes first.
The steering system in modern cars is quite impressive, with its core components being the steering wheel connected to the steering column, which leads to the steering gear, such as a rack and pinion or electronic control unit. The power assist system is particularly fascinating, with electric power steering being common nowadays, offering better energy efficiency and performance compared to the old hydraulic systems. The tie rod system transmits force to the wheels and includes sensors to monitor angle changes. This entire setup is linked to autonomous driving features, like active steering assist, which can automatically adjust the steering wheel angle to reduce errors. The benefits include easier handling and fuel savings, but electric power steering failures could lead to loss of control, so brand durability is a key factor when choosing a car. Overall, it's not just mechanical; it integrates electronic intelligence to enhance driving experience and safety.
