![]() The electrical steering pump is usually located closer to the steering column, often near the base of it. It’s normally in different locations with front-wheel drive cars versus those equipped with rear-wheel drive. Steering pump location is also going to depend on what type of drivetrain you have. It’s run by the serpentine belt, so you can find it by tracing this belt. The power steering pump is usually found on the passenger side of the vehicle or in the front of the engine. Hydraulic Power Steering – Differences, Pros & Cons Power Steering Pump Location These systems are not immune from failure either. For this reason, some manufacturers use an electric pump with the electric power assist instead. However, the pumps do take some efficiency and power away from the vehicle, even when the wheels aren’t turning. The majority of vehicles use a hydraulic and mechanical power steering system. Additionally, the pressure relief valve is in place to let the excess fluid return back to the pump. The faster it is going, the more fluid gets pumped out. The amount of pressure that is produced depends on how fast the engine is turning. Fluid is then forced into the outlet because of the high pressure. Within the pump, there are rotary vanes spinning and pulling hydraulic fluid from the return line. The pump is powered by a pulley and belt system. This pressure allows the driver to turn the steering wheel with ease. The power steering pump is responsible for pressurizing the hydraulic fluid. While it may not be the pump that’s bad, you still want to examine the system. Not all cars have this light, so you can’t rely on it to tell you if something has failed.Īs with all warning lights, this indicator is trying to get your attention. This light typically has a steering wheel symbol with an exclamation mark. ![]() Power Steering Symbol On The DashboardĪmong the dashboard warning lights, you may notice the power steering symbol. This problem is normally only caused by human error. The power steering system is closed, so nothing should infiltrate the system. If you see other types of debris in the fluid, it’s possible you left the cap off. Not only will the pump need to be replaced, but the steering gear may become damaged and you will need to perform a system flush too. These shards of metal can damage the passages to the power steering system, leading to even more complications. When the pump becomes damaged, metal pieces from it can come apart and mix into the power steering fluid. Metal Flakes In The Power Steering Fluid Reservoir Otherwise, there could be other issues that need to be repaired. Once the sound becomes a groaning or knocking, you know you need to check the system immediately.Ī defective power steering pump could lead to this problem. There’s a noise that can occur beyond the whining or squealing. Either way, this is a safety concern that should be dealt with immediately. You may find yourself making faster or more dramatic movements just to work with the steering. The steering can often become jerky or rough as the pump fails, making it more difficult to keep the vehicle in the lane where it belongs. If you still have control over the steering but notice it is not acting normally, the pump could be going bad. RELATED: 9 Reasons Your Car Makes Noise When Turning and How To Fix It 3. To tell the difference between the two, you would need to perform an inspection while the engine is running. Yet, many of these problems are also caused by low fluid, so it’s best to check that first.Īdditionally, the serpentine belt that runs the pump can make the same noises as it becomes loose and weakened. As the RPMs climb, the pitch of the sound can also change. You may also notice the sound when you first crank the engine on. Squealing or whining is often the most complained about, and it becomes more noticeable while turning the steering wheel. Squealing Noises When TurningĪs the power steering pump begins to fade, you may hear some strange noises. You may have just enough strength to baby the car off of the road in a safe location. The wheel becomes heavy and it could become impossible to steer at all. The wheel gets difficult to turn, almost as if you need to be a bodybuilder in order to control the vehicle.īecause the pump is needed to circulate the fluid, there won’t be enough pressure throughout the system to make minor adjustments. When the power steering pump fails, the car starts to feel like it has a manual steering system. ![]() Let’s take a look at these symptoms a little closer. It can also cause a squealing or knocking noise, an illuminated power steering warning on the dash, or you may notice metal flakes in the fluid. When the power steering pump starts to fail, you will feel a heavy or stiff wheel, as well as have a struggle with rough or jerky steering. Conclusion Symptoms Of A Bad Power Steering Pump ![]()
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