Understanding Your Vehicle's Power Steering System
In modern vehicles, the ease with which you steer your car is largely attributed to the electric power steering system. This system has evolved over the years to enhance driving comfort and responsiveness. Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, you may encounter different types of electric steering units such as electric steering racks, electric columns, or hydro-electric steering pumps.
Common Problems with Power Steering
At Power Steering Solutions Cape Town, we often come across the following issues:
1. Steering Light On: When your car's power steering system encounters an issue, a warning light often illuminates on the dashboard as the first sign of trouble.
2. Steering Feels Heavy: A properly functioning power steering system should make the wheel turn effortlessly. If the steering wheel feels hard to turn, it indicates an issue.
3. Not Self-Centering: After taking a turn, a healthy steering system should naturally bring the steering wheel back to the center position. If this doesn’t happen, it's a red flag.
4. Torque Sensor Fault: The torque sensor monitors the effort you put into turning the steering wheel and adjusts the assistance accordingly. A fault here could disrupt this delicate balance.
5. Motor Fault Code: Your vehicle's onboard diagnostics may throw motor fault codes indicating a problem with the electric motor in the steering system.
6. Noisy Steering: Unusual noises such as whining or grinding while steering are signs that your power steering system requires attention.
Locating Your Steering Components
Electric Steering Racks: Situated between the wheels, these are connected to the steering wheel via a manual steering column, attached to the top pinion splines of the rack.
Electric Steering Column: This is positioned between the steering wheel and the steering rack, facilitating easy manoeuvrability.
Hydro-Electric Steering Pump: Located in the engine compartment, this pump connects to the steering rack through hydraulic hoses. Although it has its own motor, it still uses steering fluid.
When to Seek Professional Assistance
If you notice any of the aforementioned signs, it’s crucial to have your vehicle checked promptly. Ignoring these early warnings could lead to a complete power steering failure, making your vehicle difficult to control and possibly unsafe.
Why Choose Power Steering Solutions Cape Town
Replacing a failed power steering unit can be an expensive affair and may necessitate coding upon installation. However, at Power Steering Services, we specialize in repairing your existing unit at a fraction of the cost of purchasing a new one, if it is repairable. Moreover, our expertly repaired units will NOT require any coding when re-installed, making the process seamless and efficient.
Remember, timely intervention can save you from more significant problems down the line. Trust Power Steering Solutions Cape Town for all your steering needs.
