What happens when power steering fluid is low?
3 Answers
Symptoms of low power steering fluid include: 1. The power steering pump experiences fluid shortage, causing the oil level to drop too low, resulting in abnormal noises when turning the steering wheel; 2. Poor lubrication of the power steering pump when the engine is cold, leading to internal wear and abnormal noises; 3. Difficulty in steering, or even inability to steer. More details are as follows: 1. Power steering fluid is a special liquid used in the power steering pump of a vehicle's power steering system. Through hydraulic action, it makes the steering wheel very light, making it easier for the driver to control the direction. 2. When the driver turns the steering wheel, the power steering system automatically provides assistance, reducing the driver's steering effort. Power steering fluid is a medium oil added to the power steering system, serving to transmit steering force and provide cushioning.
Having driven for nearly twenty years, the most obvious symptom of low power steering fluid is the steering wheel suddenly becoming extremely heavy, just like driving a tractor without power steering—you have to twist it hard to turn, especially during traffic jams or U-turns, which is particularly strenuous. Then, you might hear a buzzing noise, which comes from the power steering pump grinding dry because it needs fluid for lubrication and cooling. If the fluid runs low for a long time, the pump can easily burn out, and the gears may wear down, leading to expensive repairs, often costing over a thousand bucks. If you notice something wrong, I suggest stopping the car immediately and checking the power steering fluid reservoir in the engine bay. If the fluid level is below the marked line, it means it’s low—find a repair shop to top it up and check for leaks. Developing a habit of checking the fluid dipstick every month can save a lot of hassle, as safety always comes first.
I remember when I first got my driver's license, my old car's power steering fluid was leaking a bit. While driving, the steering wheel suddenly became as stiff as a rock, and I almost couldn't make the turn at the intersection. It scared me so much that I broke out in a cold sweat. At that time, I had no experience and didn't know how to check. Later, the mechanic explained that lack of fluid could cause the steering system to fail, which could easily lead to an accident. He taught me to open the hood, find the translucent fluid reservoir, and check if the fluid level was full. He also emphasized that if I smelled burning or heard squeaking noises, I should address it immediately. Since then, I always remind myself to regularly check the power steering fluid. Don't wait until there's a problem to take action—just a few simple steps can prevent major trouble.
