Why is the steering wheel of a small car heavy?
3 Answers
The reasons for a heavy steering wheel in a small car are: 1. Insufficient power steering fluid; 2. Dirty power steering fluid; 3. Malfunction of the power steering booster; 4. Low tire pressure; 5. Toe-in malfunction; 6. Fault in the steering gear or power steering pump; 7. Overly tight bearing fit. The function of the steering wheel is to convert the force applied by the driver to the edge of the steering wheel into torque, which is then transmitted to the steering shaft. Precautions for steering wheel operation include: 1. When turning the steering wheel back, do it quickly and accurately return to position; 2. Do not apply excessive force when turning the steering wheel; 3. When driving in hazardous mountainous areas or on poor road surfaces, hold the steering wheel with both hands to prevent accidents; 4. Avoid turning the steering wheel when the vehicle is stationary.
After driving small cars for many years, the most common reason for the steering wheel suddenly becoming heavy is a problem with the power steering system. I remember my first car had this issue—insufficient hydraulic fluid caused the power steering pump to malfunction, making it feel like turning a stone. Low tire pressure is another common cause, as uneven tire wear increases steering resistance, making it feel much heavier. Loose or worn steering linkage components can also be a factor; if these parts rust or deform, steering becomes particularly strenuous. If not addressed promptly, it may lead to increased wear or even loss of steering control, which is very dangerous. I recommend first checking the hydraulic fluid level or tire pressure, topping up the fluid or inflating the tires if necessary. However, don’t delay too long—it’s best to visit a professional repair shop for a thorough inspection. Spending a little money to ensure safety is always worth it.
As someone quite interested in cars, I've noticed that heavy steering is often related to the type of power assistance. For hydraulic systems, insufficient or leaking fluid can cause power assist failure, and a broken pump makes things worse, resulting in completely stiff steering. With electric power steering, motor or sensor failures can also suddenly make the steering heavier, such as when temperature sensing errors trigger protection mode. Tires also have a significant impact—low pressure can increase resistance. I once helped a friend check out a car, and simply adding hydraulic fluid made a big difference. If you can't handle it yourself, don't forget to check the suspension and wheel alignment, as ignoring these issues might lead to pulling or uneven tire wear. Overall, it's important to understand the basic causes before attempting repairs, but don't push yourself too hard—ensuring driving safety is the top priority.
