Why is the steering wheel heavier in winter?
3 Answers
Here is the relevant introduction to the reasons for a heavier steering wheel in winter: 1. It is normal for the car steering wheel to feel heavier in winter because the lubrication between various components of the vehicle decreases in low-temperature environments, especially between the chassis suspension and the transmission system. Therefore, drivers may find it more strenuous to turn the steering wheel or shift gears compared to summer, and the vehicle may feel heavier during driving. However, it will return to normal after driving for a while. 2. In low winter temperatures, the movement of air molecules slows down, leading to a decrease in tire pressure, which increases the friction between the tires and the road, making it more difficult to turn the steering wheel. 3. In low-temperature environments, the fluidity of hydraulic power steering fluid weakens, resulting in insufficient power steering fluid. Since the power steering fluid is the main force that propels the vehicle forward, the car naturally becomes harder to drive when the power steering fluid is insufficient.
Last winter when I was driving my friend's car, I noticed the steering wheel was particularly heavy. This could be because the low temperature made the power steering fluid too thick. Hydraulic power steering systems tend to get sticky in cold weather, especially in older cars which show this more noticeably. I later looked it up and found that low tire pressure can also worsen this situation, as softer tires increase steering friction, and slippery roads add extra burden to the entire system. It's recommended to let the car warm up for a minute or two before starting off, and don't forget to check the power steering fluid level and tire pressure, keeping them at the manufacturer's recommended values to alleviate the issue. For older cars, it's best to check if the steering system has any aging or oil leaks to prevent potential problems.
I always worry about the steering wheel becoming heavier in winter, which increases driving risks, especially on icy roads where delayed steering response can easily lead to accidents. Common causes include low temperatures slowing down the electric power steering system's response or increased viscosity of hydraulic fluid. I recommend developing the habit of using the appropriate steering fluid during maintenance and ensuring tires are properly inflated to avoid steering difficulty due to low pressure. Safety first—when encountering such situations, slowing down and driving steadily is better than forcing a turn. Also, check if lights and other components are functioning properly to reduce nighttime hazards.
