What to do if your power steering is overheating?

What to do if your power steering is overheating?

Try looping the pressure line back to the return on the pump and see if the fluid stops boiling. If it stops boiling then there could be a restriction in the power steering box.

Why is my power steering not working properly?

This non-hydraulic failure involves the power steering system’s electrical components. Whenever steering becomes super-stiff, the electric assist mechanism isn’t responding. What to do: if you have a code reader, it’ll point you in the right direction.

What to do if your power steering is leaking?

What to do: go to the root of the problem. Power steering fluid leaks are usually caused by a cracked or worn-out hose that feeds the power steering pump. Also give the hose clamps and other connections a careful inspection. If the hoses and clamps check out OK, move on to the power steering pump.

Why do I need an electric power steering system?

The benefit of an electric system is that when the power assist isn’t needed the system can shut down. A traditional hydraulic power steering system is always sapping power from the engine because the hydraulic pump is running whether you need help steering or not.

What to do if you have a power steering problem?

What to do: give your power steering pump pulley a thorough inspection, or have a professional mechanic take a look. If you have a buddy who’s willing to help, safely jack your car up and have one person turn the wheel while the others inspects the power steering belt.

Why does the battery light come on when you lose power steering?

Typically the battery light comes on when the alternator is not providing electrical power to meet demands of the vehicle. That you lost power steering assist along with the battery light coming on, leads me to think the one common thing between them – the serpentine belt drive system – is at fault.

Why is my power steering squealing and grinding?

Like most unexpected noises, power steering squeals & grinding are – 99% of the time – related to the belt drive. What to do: give your power steering pump pulley a thorough inspection, or have a professional mechanic take a look.

What causes power steering fluid to leak out?

Power steering fluid has a very unique odor, described by many auto experts as a combination between fresh oil and singed, overused oil. What to do: go to the root of the problem. Power steering fluid leaks are usually caused by a cracked or worn-out hose that feeds the power steering pump.