About the power steering pump:power-steering-pump2

Your car’s power steering system allows for smoother, less “heavy” steering. This allows the car to be controlled with less force. In order for the power steering system to work, hydraulic pressure must be generated. This is what the power steering pump does.

Powered by your engine’s drive belt, the power steering pump contains several retractable vanes that spin inside a small chamber. As the vanes rotate, they pull power steering fluid through the hoses and increase its pressure. The power steering system then controls this pressure,  allowing for an increased response from the steering wheel.

Learn more about how power steering works

 

When should the power steering pump be replaced?

Power steering pumps are not part of most car maintenance schedules. This means that they do not require periodic replacement unless they break. In theory, a power steering pump can last the life of your vehicle, however, they generally don’t last longer than 200,000km. 

When the power steering pump fails, it can cause a leak which can deplete the system of power steering fluid. It can also stop the fluid from being pumped, resulting in stiffer, harsher steering.

Please Note – the power steering pump is checked for a Warrant of Fitness as correct steering operation in vital for safe driving. Therefore if the power steering drive belt or the power steering pump or power steering hoses are damaged or leaking then any of these will cause your vehicle to fail a Warrant of Fitness (WOF).

 

Symptoms of a broken power steering pump:

When the power steering pump fails, you may notice the following symptoms:

  • Difficulty in steering: One of the primary signs of a broken power steering pump is increased difficulty in steering the vehicle, especially at lower speeds. You may notice that the steering wheel requires more effort to turn, and the vehicle feels heavy or unresponsive.
  • Whining or squealing noise: A damaged power steering pump often produces a whining or squealing noise, particularly when the steering wheel is turned. This noise may indicate a problem with the pump’s bearings or internal components.
  • Fluid leakage: A broken power steering pump may develop leaks, causing power steering fluid to drip or spray under the vehicle. You might notice fluid pooling underneath the engine compartment or see signs of fluid on the power steering pump itself.
  • Reduced or inconsistent power steering: The power steering system relies on the pump to provide hydraulic pressure that assists in steering. If the pump is broken, you may experience reduced or inconsistent power assist, where the steering feels less smooth, and the amount of power assistance fluctuates.

 

Driving without a functional power steering pump

When the pump stops working, your power steering system will not assist your steering as usual. Although you can still drive, turning will require much more effort. This can potentially create safety issues, especially when you’re not used to driving without power steering.

It is important to note that if you are also experiencing power issues, higher engine temperatures and load noises, the power steering failure may be caused by a snapped drive belt. This is something that can cause damage to your engine when ignored as the car becomes unable to cool itself properly. When this happens, we recommend avoiding driving and having your car towed.


 

New Power Steering Pump Installation in Hamilton

Is your car in need of a new power steering pump? If so, we can help! At Grimmer Motors, our team of skilled mechanics can remove and replace your old power steering pump. This will allow for easier and more responsive steering. For all power steering system repairs in Hamilton, including hoses, pumps, drive belts and fluids, contact Grimmer Motors today!

 

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