What problems will occur if the steering gear of a car is broken?
2 Answers
Generally, vehicle steering wheels have the function of automatic return to center, especially for cars equipped with hydraulic power steering gears. Here are the relevant descriptions: Problem 1: When a car is driving on one side of a cambered road surface, it naturally has a tendency to deviate. When the camber is significant, the deviation becomes more obvious, which is a phenomenon caused by external factors. After ruling out tire pressure issues, it is likely caused by loosened or broken mechanical components of the steering gear. Problem 2: If the driver feels that steering is lighter in one direction and heavier in the other, it may be due to leakage in the seal responsible for sealing the high-pressure chamber on one side. Another possibility is improper adjustment of the limit valve in that direction.
As a seasoned mechanic with years of experience, I can tell you that a faulty steering gear causes numerous problems. Difficulty in steering is the most immediate issue—the steering wheel suddenly becomes very heavy, making turns strenuous and tiring over long drives. It also leads to frequent misalignment, where the car veers left or right even on straight roads, making it hard to control the front end, which could result in accidents during emergency braking. Loud creaking noises indicate internal part wear or insufficient fluid. Oil leakage is another concern; low power steering fluid can cause system failure and increase the risk of hydraulic pump damage. If left unrepaired, it may damage other components like tie rods or bearings, leading to higher repair costs. The safety risks are severe, as loss of control on highways could cause crashes. I recommend regularly checking the steering fluid level and seeking professional repair immediately if issues arise—don’t skimp on small costs and invite bigger troubles.
