A power steering pump is a component in your vehicle that helps you steer effortlessly and smoothly. When the power steering pump begins to fail, it often results in some unpleasant symptoms that can greatly impact the way you drive.
The ability to detect warning signs associated with a bad power steering pump is crucial to addressing the problem before it causes significant harm to other parts of your vehicle.
In this article, we will be discussing how to tell if your power steering pump is bad, the most common symptoms of a failing power steering pump, and the actions you can perform to fix those symptoms.
Topic Summary
How To Tell If Your Power Steering Pump is Bad?
The power steering pump is one of the main parts of your steering system. It makes your car turn smoothly without a lot of effort.
The pump does this by pushing hydraulic fluid through the steering system. Without the power steering, it would take a lot more strength to turn your car smoothly and safely.
If the power steering pump goes bad, there can be a few different things that happen to your car. Here are some indicators that the power steering pump in your car is beginning to fail:
Unusual Noises
Strange noises are one of a power steering pump’s earliest tell tale signs of trouble. If you have a whining, groaning, squealing noise as soon as you make a turn, that pump might be in need of attention.
In many cases, you’ll hear these noises when the pump is low on fluid or air is trapped in the system.
Steering Difficulty
If your steering feels heavier than usual or you have a hard time turning the wheel, the power steering pump might be the culprit.
Difficulty steering can progress slowly or suddenly, depending on the severity of the pump failure.
Grinding Sounds
The steering wheel also can start grinding when turning, indicating that the power steering pump is going.
This sound could result from the lack of sufficient lubrication around the steering components, leading to a damaged rack and pinion or other mechanical parts of the vehicle.
Fluid Leaks
Next time you fill up at a gas station, examine the underside of your car to see if there are any power steering fluid leaks.
If you see leaking fluid in the shape of reddish or pink puddles on the ground, then your power steering pump or some part of its associated hoses might be leaking. Signs of power steering system trouble include loud noises.
Steering Wheel Vibration
A failing power steering pump will make your steering wheel shake and shimmy, particularly when turning. You might feel your car losing its ability to steer.
Warning Lights
Modern cars might have a sensor that monitors the power steering: if the power steering pump is failing, you might see a light in the instrument panel indicating a problem with the steering.
Burning Smell
When the fluid is really bad, the power steering pump will overheat and will cause a burnt smell that appears underneath the hood. Friction and heat are the main causes of such a smell.
Erratic Steering Response
If you feel a power steering response that is inconsistent or erratic, where the steering has been unresponsive or jerked slightly, it could be attributed to a damaged pump or air being trapped in the system.
How To Diagnose A Bad Power Steering Pump?
If you experience any of these warning signs, you must act immediately in the following manner:
Check the Fluid Level: Check the power steering fluid level. If it’s low, add the specified fluid for your vehicle. That may solve the problem.
Check For Leaks: Inspect the area around the power steering pump and hoses for any signs of fluid leaking into the engine. If you notice fluid puddles or pooling, this may be the cause of your problem. Repairing the leak is the next step in restoring the function.
Get a Professional: If it turns out that you can’t diagnose or repair it yourself, then it is never ill advised to seek the help of a mechanic. They have experience and know how to do the tricky stuff.
How To Fix A Bad Power Steering Pump?
Here’s a step by step guide on how to address a failing power steering pump:
1. Check the Power Steering Fluid
- Locate the Reservoir: Find the power steering fluid reservoir under the hood.
- Check Fluid Level: If it is not, fill it with the right kind of power steering fluid for your car.
2. Inspect For Leaks
- Look For Leaks: Inspect the power steering pump and hoses for any signs of leaks.
- Repair Leaks: Repair any leaks by replacing cracked hoses or tightening loose connections with a wrench or screwdriver. Leaking fluid should not be ignored as it may lead to engine damage.
3. Bleed the Steering System
- Turn The Steering Wheel: With the engine running, turn the steering wheel from lock to lock to expel trapped air.
- Check Fluid Level Again: After the bloodletting event, check if the fluid level is adequate, and pour more in if necessary.
4. Check For Other Issues
- Listen For Noises: The noise could be something simple, but pump internals can get damaged as well. Check steering for strange noises.
- Inspect the Belt: Verify the drive belt that powers the pump is adequate and sufficiently tensioned.
5. Replace the Power Steering Pump
- Disconnect the Battery: For safety, disconnect the vehicle’s battery before starting work.
- Remove the Old Pump: Take off the hoses and electrical connectors from the old pump. Then, remove the pump from the engine.
- Install the New Pump: Put the new pump in place. Connect all the hoses/parts from the previous pump and route them as before. Make sure all the parts are secured in place.
- Refill Fluid And Bleed System: Top-up power steering fluid and bleed system.
6. Test Drive
- Check Performance: Take it for a spin to make sure that the steering feels normal: tight and responsive, with no signs of the problem continuing.
Of course, if you are not confident doing this sort of work yourself, or the problem gets worse, find a reputable mechanic. A professional will know exactly what’s wrong and make sure the work is done right.
FAQs on How To Tell If Your Power Steering Pump is Bad
What is A Power Steering Pump?
The power steering pump is part of your vehicle’s steering system that assists you when turning the steering wheel and making turns. Hydraulic power steering assists you in turning by using power steering fluid in a hydraulic system to counteract the force needed to turn the wheels. The engine drives it, and the power steering fluid is cycled through the system.
How Often Should the Power Steering Fluid Be Checked or Replaced?
Power steering fluid can be checked as often as your vehicle’s oil, typically as part of a routine oil change or as often as every 2 to 3 months, although some manufacturers recommend that it be replaced every 2 to 3 years in line with the other fluids in your vehicle. However, always refer to your owner’s manual for exact intervals.
Can I Drive My Car If the Power Steering Pump is Failing?
Although you can drive with a power steering pump that is just about to break down, that could prove a bit difficult and even hazardous. Your vehicle would be harder to steer and likely less responsive, making it more difficult to avoid obstacles while your car is at slower speeds. Therefore, once you realize that the power steering pump has begun to get on its last legs, it would be a good idea to stop at the closest shop or service station, have it inspected, and do the necessary repairs.
How Much Does It Cost To Replace A Power Steering Pump?
It depends on the make and model of your car and what labor costs are where you live, but for a power steering pump replacement, consider paying between $300 to $600, including parts and labor. Though it’s always best to get several quotes from shops who can work on your car.
Can I Fix A Power Steering Pump Myself?
You could probably substitute a power steering pump for an ordinary one if you have been into repair work and have the right tools available, but it’s a complicated process, potentially dangerous, so it is near impossible for anyone else to perform it on their own.
Conclusion
If your power steering pump is not working properly, it could result in an uncomfortable and unsafe driving experience.
When you pay attention to the signs of a bad power steering pump and address them immediately, you can ensure that your vehicle continues to remain safe and easy to drive.
If you maintain your power steering system regularly and in a timely manner, it will remain in good condition.