Why does the car steering wheel suddenly become heavy?
2 Answers
Reasons for a heavy steering wheel: 1. Dirty power steering fluid. This situation is similar to how dirty engine oil affects engine power and performance. Dirty power steering fluid can cause the steering wheel to become increasingly heavy, and a lack of power steering fluid can also make the steering wheel feel heavier. 2. If it is an electric power steering system, check whether the fuse is blown, and whether there is an open circuit or a short to ground in the wiring. Repeatedly turning the steering wheel while stationary or at low speeds places a heavy load on the power steering system, which can easily cause the steering gear to overheat and enter a protective mode, resulting in heavy steering. It will return to normal after cooling down, which is a normal phenomenon.
I just experienced the steering wheel becoming heavier last week. It was actually a problem with the power steering system. Common causes include a faulty power steering pump or a loose belt, and for electronic power steering, it could be a sensor malfunction. Low tire pressure can also make the steering wheel feel heavy, so remember to check the air pressure in all four tires first. Additionally, a leaking steering gear or incorrect front wheel alignment can also cause this issue. The most frightening scenario is when the steering suddenly becomes heavy while driving, as this can affect handling safety. I recommend slowing down immediately and pulling over to check the tire pressure and power steering fluid level first. If everything seems fine, it's best to seek professional help for inspection and repair rather than attempting to fix it yourself, as you might end up damaging the steering rack.