Why does the steering wheel suddenly become stiff and difficult to turn?
3 Answers
Steering wheel suddenly becoming stiff and difficult to turn is caused by air not being completely discharged from the steering system after fluid leakage. If the power steering pump operates for a long time without sufficient oil, it can lead to severe wear and reduced steering system performance. Repairing power steering pump oil leaks can be addressed by replacing sealing rings and oil seals, or replacing the entire assembly if necessary. Common steering wheel malfunctions: 1. Locking: After the vehicle is turned off, the steering wheel automatically locks as a simple anti-theft feature. This doesn't happen every time you start the ignition, and generally the steering wheel automatically unlocks after starting the vehicle with the key. 2. Vibration: When driving at speeds between 80-90 km/h, steering wheel vibration may occur, which disappears when exceeding 90 km/h. This is mostly caused by tire deformation or vehicle transmission system issues. It's necessary to check whether the front wheel alignment angles and toe-in meet requirements, and make adjustments if they are off specification.
I once experienced the steering wheel suddenly becoming very tight and difficult to turn, which was quite frightening. The usual cause is a problem with the power steering system. For hydraulic power steering vehicles, it might be due to a fluid leak or a faulty pump; for electric power steering vehicles, motor or sensor failures can easily cause this issue. If the tire pressure is too low or there's a stone stuck, the steering wheel can also become stiff. One time on the highway, I encountered this and immediately pulled over to check, later discovering that the steering column was rusted and blocked. Remember, if this happens while driving, don't force it. Stop the car immediately, turn off the engine, check if any warning lights are illuminated on the dashboard, and then call a professional technician for inspection and repair. During regular maintenance, pay attention to the condition of the power steering fluid and battery—prevention is key.
Over my decade-plus of driving, I've encountered steering wheel stiffness several times, mostly due to steering system issues. Problems like hydraulic power steering fluid leaks or electric power steering controller failures can cause this. Tire issues shouldn't be overlooked either, such as blowouts or foreign objects jamming the wheels. Just last week, my neighbor's car suddenly became immobile for this very reason - it turned out to be a clogged aging power steering pump. When this happens, I first gently turn the wheel to assess. If stiffness persists, I gradually slow down and pull over to a safe spot for inspection. I recommend regular shop visits for steering lubrication and maintenance to avoid roadside breakdowns compromising safety.
