What to Do When Land Rover Power Steering Performance Decreases?
3 Answers
If the power steering fluid level is low, replenish the fluid (power steering fluid is interchangeable with automatic transmission fluid). In case of a belt breakage, if the power steering pump is driven by a separate belt, you can continue driving but without power assistance, and should visit a repair shop as soon as possible.
My Range Rover's power steering became heavier last year. Initially, I thought it was a minor issue and ignored it, but it gradually worsened. Later, I took it to a repair shop for inspection and found that the power steering pump had a slight leak, causing the fluid level to drop. Topping up the fluid provided temporary relief, but the problem soon worsened again. The mechanic recommended replacing the entire pump and all the seals. It cost some money, but it completely resolved the issue. My advice: if you notice the steering becoming heavier or harder to turn, first stop and check the power steering fluid reservoir to see if the level is low or the fluid is contaminated. If it’s low, there might be a leak—don’t force it, as this could damage more components. Take it to a professional repair shop or an authorized dealer for a detailed diagnosis. Land Rover’s electronic systems can be complex, and DIY repairs carry risks—safety first.
As a seasoned driver with over a decade of experience, I always review maintenance records when encountering power steering issues. Reduced steering performance in Land Rovers is typically caused by aging/leaking steering fluid, worn power steering pumps, or faulty electronic control modules. For instance, last week my friend's vehicle suffered pump burnout due to overheating caused by low fluid levels. My advice: immediately stop to check the fluid reservoir. If levels are normal but steering remains heavy, it might indicate pump failure or sensor malfunction. In such cases, avoid DIY repairs - visit a reputable repair shop for computer diagnostics. Daily precautions include avoiding sharp turns on unpaved roads to reduce system strain, plus annual steering component inspections to prevent deterioration.
