Is the power steering stiff in cold weather?
When the car is cold, in cold weather (under 40 degrees) the power steering is stiff/doesnt work well at all. When the car warms up a few minutes it works fine. Is there any type of additive I can add to the fluid to help in this problem? (long term, I plan to replace the rack and pinion, but I can’t do it right now) Any suggestions?
Is it hard to turn the steering wheel after starting a van?
The steering wheel is very hard to turn immediately after starting the van when the engine is cold. This only happens intermittently (maybe 1 out of 30 times) After a few seconds it becomes easy to turn, as if the power steering was off and it turned itself on.
Why does my steering wheel stiffen when I start the car?
If you find the stiffed wheel just after starting the car, the problem is definitely with the steering rack. The wheel will gradually feel free to move when you continue driving. It happens because the rack gets hotter with the running of the engine, allowing the lubricant to settle in.
Why does my steering rack keep getting worn?
It is aluminum and gets worn where there are pressure seals rotating. When cold, fluid bypasses the pressure seals through the worn area (loss of power steering) until the rack warms up, aluminum expands and the seals can actually seal. The fix is, of course, replacing the rack.
The steering wheel is very hard to turn immediately after starting the van when the engine is cold. This only happens intermittently (maybe 1 out of 30 times) After a few seconds it becomes easy to turn, as if the power steering was off and it turned itself on.
Is there a diagnosis for intermittent power steering?
With power steering complaints such as yours where the symptom is intermittent the diagnosis is mostly guesswork in a setting such as this. You can do a few things to get to the source though.
What to do if power steering fluid is contaminated?
Check the fluid level at your power steering reservoir. Adjust the fluid level as necessary. Fluid is contaminated – power steering fluid will contaminate over time and properly flushing the power steering system is a commonly neglected maintenance item.
Why does my power steering whine under my car?
This unit is typically part of the rack and pinion assembly. If you hear a whine or jitter coming from under the vehicle and in close proximity to where the steering yoke meets your power steering rack then this could be the problem. Other unknowns – The problem could be none of the above.