What is the function of the steering gear?

[SanDiana]

The function of the steering gear is to appropriately transform the steering torque and steering angle from the steering wheel (mainly by reducing speed and increasing torque) and then output it to the steering linkage mechanism, thereby enabling the vehicle to turn. The following is a detailed introduction to the automotive power steering system: 1. Function: It uses the power generated by an electric motor to assist the driver in steering. This system directly provides steering assistance through an electric power motor, eliminating the need for components such as the power steering pump, hoses, hydraulic fluid, drive belt, and pulley mounted on the engine required by hydraulic power steering systems, saving energy and protecting the environment. 2. Composition: The automotive power steering system can improve vehicle stability. When the vehicle shows signs of instability, the electronic power steering system can independently brake each wheel and participate in the engine system management to ensure driving safety. The automotive power steering system mainly consists of a vehicle speed sensor, reduction mechanism, torque sensor, electric motor, and electronic control unit.

[VanFelix]

I've been looking at cars for over a decade now, and to put it simply, the steering gear is what helps transfer the movement of the steering wheel to the wheels. Without it, no matter how hard you turn the steering wheel, the front wheels wouldn't budge. It also makes steering easier—take the recirculating ball design, for example, which uses steel balls to reduce friction, making driving naturally effortless. Moreover, it's crucial for driving safety. If the steering gear jams or leaks oil, the car won't go where you point it, and worse, it could lead to serious accidents when making turns on the road. Usually, pay attention to changes in the steering wheel's resistance; sometimes unusual noises are also warning signals from the steering gear.

[AdalineFitz]

In the repair shop, the most frequently dealt with is the steering system. In fact, there are several types of steering gears. The most commonly used is the rack and pinion type, where turning the steering wheel moves the rack left and right, driving the tires to turn. There's also the recirculating ball type, which relies on steel balls rolling in the nut track, with low friction suitable for large vehicles. Hydraulic power steering adds an oil pump, making the steering wheel as light as a toy. Electronic power steering is now more advanced, with the computer sensing the turning speed to assist you. These structures determine the steering wheel's play and the strength of road feedback, with noticeable differences when driving on mountain roads.

[VanHeidi]

Every driver knows how crucial the steering gear is. That time my friend's car had a broken tie rod, the steering wheel had to be turned to its limit just to move the tires a tiny bit, almost causing an accident on the highway. The failure rate isn't actually high, but when it does fail, it's a big deal. You should slow down when going over potholes—gears in the steering gear can easily deform from hard impacts. In summer, check the power steering fluid regularly; if it leaks, the steering wheel can become so heavy it's hard to turn. I remember a mechanic once said that if the front wheel alignment is off on some cars, not only does it cause uneven tire wear, but it also doubles the load on the steering gear, requiring a full replacement in less than six months.

[Tom]

I've driven over twenty different cars, and the steering system directly impacts the driving feel. BMW's precise rack-and-pinion setup moves the front wheels with just a millimeter of steering input, making corners feel incredibly responsive. Japanese cars often have more steering play, which makes for relaxed driving but sacrifices some of the fun. The heavy hydraulic steering in old Mercedes-Benz models provides such clear feedback you could almost count the pebbles on the road. Modern electric power steering's most annoying trait is its artificial road feel, though it does make stop-and-go traffic easier. Driving enthusiasts should still opt for mechanical-feeling steering systems that let you sense the front tires' grip through corners.