Causes of Car Power Steering Damage

For car enthusiasts, the term power steering is certainly not unfamiliar. Power steering, which is a technology that has been applied in the latest cars, has a myriad of benefits. Many well-known car manufacturers use power steering technology, including Daihatsu, Toyota, Suzuki, and Mitsubishi. However, do you know what power steering is?

Definition of power steering

Power steering is actually a steering system that functions to make steering lighter and requires less effort when driving. As a result, your hands do not get too tired, especially if the car is used for long-distance travel. There are many advantages if your car uses power steering, including reduced steering effort, improved stability while driving, and reduced jolting when driving on poorly maintained roads.

Functions of power steering

The reason why the latest cars use power steering technology is due to the many functions of power steering itself. Here are some functions of power steering categorized based on the components that make up the power steering system:

1. Reservoir

The first component of power steering is the reservoir. This reservoir functions to maintain and store the oil reserve in the steering system.

2. Control valve

The second is the control valve, which functions to regulate the flow circulation to the fluid or oil pressure adjusted according to the steering direction.

3. Pump

The next component is the pump, which functions to generate fluid pressure that is then channeled to all circuits or systems in the power steering.

4. Power cylinder

And the last is the power cylinder, which functions to channel the oil flow to the long tie rod adjusted according to the steering direction.

Causes of power steering damage and how to address it

Power steering has now become an important and standard part of a car. Therefore, whenever purchasing a car, it is essential to pay attention to the power steering part, ensuring it functions properly. This is because comfort while driving is very important and needs more attention.

As the car is used over time, the power steering can also experience damage caused by several factors. When the power steering is damaged, the steering becomes heavier, making it uncomfortable for you while driving. So what causes the power steering to fail, and how can it be addressed? Here is a complete review.

1. Insufficient tire pressure

The first cause of power steering damage is insufficient tire pressure. This can happen when the tires lack air pressure, resulting in friction between the tires and the road, making the vehicle's movement heavier.

The heaviness of the vehicle's movement corresponds to the weight of the car's engine components, including the power steering. If the car's speed slows down, the power steering will also have to work harder. If left unchecked for too long, this can lead to rapid power steering damage.

2. Lack of oil fluid

The second cause of rapid power steering damage is a lack of oil fluid in the engine. In fact, power steering requires sufficient oil fluid to function optimally. Therefore, when the power steering is low on oil, it makes the car's steering heavier, and the power steering cannot function maximally.

To address this, you should regularly service your car and routinely check the power steering. Ensure that the oil in the power steering is sufficient. Do not let the oil run out for too long, as it can cause rapid power steering damage. As a result, you will have to spend more money on repair costs.

3. Habit of turning the steering wheel to the limit

One bad habit that can cause rapid power steering damage is the habit of turning the steering wheel to the limit. Drivers often do this when they want to change direction. It is advisable to avoid turning the steering wheel to the limit or until you hear a 'click' sound. Over time, this can lead to damage to your car's power steering.

4. Sudden tire puncture

A sudden tire puncture may seem like a trivial problem, but if left unchecked for too long, it can also harm your car's engine, including the power steering. Power steering damage can occur due to a punctured tire because when the tire is flat, forcing the car to move will make the steering heavier. Doesn't this just make the power steering work harder, and over time, lead to its damage?

5. Damaged steering rack

Another cause of power steering damage is a damaged steering rack. The steering rack is a primary component that directly connects to the power steering. Prolonged use of the car without servicing can cause the steering rack to wear out quickly.

In such conditions, the steering system becomes heavier and harder to control. However, when the car is started, as the engine heats up and the lubricant spreads evenly, the power steering operates optimally. Nevertheless, it is advisable not to forget to service it, as such habits can gradually damage the power steering.

6. Loose power steering belt

One often overlooked issue is a loose power steering belt. This belt functions to stop the steering from rotating. It is a component that is very susceptible to damage, so caution is needed when using it. Do not let this belt break or become loose.

Damage to the power steering is not a trivial matter due to the importance of steering while driving. A simple way to determine whether the power steering is functioning is by your sensitivity while driving. When driving, especially for long distances, if you feel that the steering is no longer comfortable or makes your hands tired quickly, this is a sign that your car's power steering may not be functioning optimally.

The step you should take is to take it directly to a workshop for immediate repair and not wait for the damage to worsen, as it can also pose a danger. And do not forget to avoid anything that could cause your car's power steering to wear out quickly. By avoiding things that could damage your car's power steering, at least it will last longer and be more durable.

Well, that is some explanation about power steering along with the causes of power steering damage in cars. Hopefully, it can inspire you to take good care of your car for smoothness and comfort while driving.

Tips Sahabat