Do you feel that turning your vehicle around a sharp bend isn’t as easy as it used to be? Are you wondering why this is happening? Well, the simple answer to your question is that you’re running low on power steering fluid!
Power steering fluid is a frequently overlooked aspect of a smooth drive. If your vehicle doesn’t have the right type and the right amount of steering fluid, steering it can become uncomfortable, risky, and even impossible. When your power steering fluid becomes low, your vehicle will start to display certain symptoms.
In this blog, we’ll tell you the signs of low power steering fluid and how you can fix it.
Signs of Low Power Steering Fluid
Steering Problems – Naturally, the primary indication of low power steering fluid is going to be steering problems. You will notice that steering will become hard, making it difficult for you to rotate and turn the car. If you don’t get this problem fixed, you’ll end up having an accident because it’ll be impossible to steer your vehicle properly.
Squealing Noises – If you hear a whining or squealing noise whenever you turn the wheels of your car, there’s a high chance it’s because of low power steering fluid. The power steering system uses a pump for the fluid to flow, resulting in smooth steering. If the power steering fluid is low, air will start circulating the steering wheel mechanism. This will result in strange noises when you turn the steering wheel
To stop this from happening, simply refill the fluid reservoir with steering fluid. The noises will stop, given that there isn’t any leak in the fluid.
Jerky Steering Wheel – If the steering fluid is low, rotating your steering wheel to make a turn will result in it jumping around. For instance, if you turn the steering wheel left, it might bounce to the right and then back to the left.
You will find this jerkiness increasing if you drive slowly on the road or turn inside a parking space. This is often due to low power steering fluid. Note that if you don’t fix this problem immediately, it’ll only get worse with time. In fact, it can even lead to an accident if you try to turn one way but get pulled in the opposite direction.
Leaking Fluid – Stains or puddles beneath your vehicle can indicate that your power steering fluid is leaking. However, this can be something other than power steering fluid as well such as transmission fluid, oil, or coolant. But if the liquid is reddish in color, it’s most likely a sign of leaking power fluid.
Locked Steering Wheel – Low power steering fluid can even result in the steering wheel getting locked up completely. You could simply be driving to find that your steering has stopped rotating altogether. However, this usually happens in extreme situations when there’s absolutely no power steering fluid in your system.
What to Do When Your Power Steering Fluid Becomes Low?
If you observe any of the above symptoms, make sure to call in a professional service to get your power steering fluid checked and refilled.
For more than 21 years, Oceanworks has been providing Berkeley residents with incredible service in all areas of automotive repair including power steering fluid.
To get in touch with our team of professionals, dial 510-345-0606 now or visit our website today!
