Power steering pump is a vital parts of a car. It helps you to turn the steering wheel of your car at ease. But when you fell difficulty while turning the steering wheel, it’s a major power steering pump failing symptoms.
You will notice low steering fluid level and squealing sound while turning as signs of a bad power steering pump. Moreover, groaning sound and steering assist warning light on dashboard are common symptoms of a bad power steering pump.
That’s not all! There are also a number of symptoms of a bad power steering pump in your car. So, let’s get to know it in the comprehensive guide below.
Article Summary
Symptoms Of A Bad Power Steering Pump
The power steering pump of your car ensures a smooth steering experience. If you identify early whether the steering pump of your car is having trouble, you’ll be able to save yourself from costly repairs and dangerous situations while driving. So, let’s get to know about it.
1. Squealing Sound While Driving
It is one of the initial signs of a bad power steering pump. You will here squeaking sound while driving the car. In some cases, the loose or worn-out accessory belt can also cause the sound. But if the sound happens every time you start your car, it indicates that the steering pump may be failing.
2. Groaning Sound While Turning
You not only listen to unusual noises during ignition but also while taking a turn for a failing power steering pump. A loud groaning noise while turning the car or moving the steering wheel is an indication of the problem. If you don’t pay attention to it, it will lead to a costly repair.
3. Slow Responsive Steering Wheel
A steering wheel is supposed to be responsive immediately when you turn it. But a failing system never responds as it wants to. When the power steering pump of your car has gone out or is on its way to go out, your steering wheel will respond slowly or less than usual. It is one of the obvious symptoms of the bad steering pump and you have to address it.
4. Low Steering Fluid Level
Are you noticing any red stains or light brown puddles left by your car on the road? Then that’s another symptom of a defective steering pump.
A bad steering pump often leads to leaking fluid between the reservoir and the pump itself. Moreover, due to this, you will notice a marked drop in the steering fluid all of a sudden.
Note: Not all leaks can be related to the bad power steering pump. A visual inspection by experts is recommended when there is a leak in your car.
5. Difficulty in Steering Wheel Handling
The vehicle begins to behave as if it has a manual steering system due to a bad pump. The steering wheel becomes difficult to turn. Sometimes as if you have to be a bodybuilder to control the vehicle. The pump circulates the fluid.
There will be insufficient pressure in the system to make the minor adjustments. If the steering wheel becomes heavy, you won’t be able to use it smoothly. In this case, you’ll need extra strength to handle the steering wheel.
6. Rough Or Jerky Steering Wheel
If steering control doesn’t act normally, it’s a sign of power steering pump failure. When the power steering pump fails, the steering and sometimes whole car becomes jerky or rough.
You will struggle to keep the vehicle in the proper line. When you use steering, your car may also move faster or dramatically. In this case, you shouldn’t continue to drive your vehicle.
7. Power Steering Symbol On The Dashboard
If your power steering pump fails, the dashboard will show a power steering failure warning light. The symbol looks like a steering wheel with an exclamation mark.
However, all cars don’t have power steering pump signals. So you shouldn’t wait until the car shows the warning light, particularly after noticing the symptoms.
How To Troubleshoot Power Steering Pump Failing Symptoms?
You’ll need to check the whole power steering system along with the power steering pump to find the actual source of the issue. In this case, you can first check the fluid level. This is because insufficient fluid can cause the power steering pump to malfunction.
To reset power steering assist fault, remove the cap from the fluid tank and check the fluid level. Put a stick into the tank and check if the tank has enough. If the tank doesn’t have enough fluid, refill the tank.
At a time, look for any leak in the tank as it can lower fluid levels quickly. You should also check for metal shards in the fluid. If you notice any metal shards, replace the pump and then flush the fluid. Then lift the front side of the vehicle and inspect rack and pinion seals for any leaks. If the rack and pinion don’t have any problem, check for a sloppy belt.
To check the belts, start the engine and ask someone to move the steering wheel. If the belt makes squealing noise it can be the source of power steering pump failure.
How Much Does It Cost To Replace Power Steering Pump?
It will cost around $500 to $800 to replace the power steering pump including labor charge. However, you can replace the power steering pump yourself to reduce replacement cost.
It may take around 2 to 3 hours to replace the power steering pump depending on your car’s make and model. But if your car’s power steering pump is placed inside the motor, it will take a longer time to replace the pump.
How To Maintain A Power Steering Pump?
Follow these tips to keep your power steering pump in optimum condition and enjoy long-lasting performance:
- Regularly check your car steering and keep the fluid above recommended level.
- Inspect the steering pump for any leaks in the high and low-pressure hoses. If you find any leaks, repair or replace the hose.
- Replace power steering system’s filter within the recommended interval.
FAQs
How Can You Test A Bad Power Steering Pump?
You can check the fluid level and unusual sounds to determine if the power steering pump was damaged. If you find a low fluid level or hear a squealing noise, repair or replace the bad steering pump.
How Does A Bad Steering Wheel Affect A Car?
If the steering wheel gets damaged, you won’t be able to apply it to steer or stop your vehicle. It can also damage the power steering pump and cause fire.
Does Power Steering Pump Fail Suddenly?
Power steering pumps usually don’t fail suddenly. The first power steering seal can wear out and its hoses can get damaged. Over time, these minor problems cause power steering failure.
Final Words
If your car shows any power steering pump failing symptoms, don’t continue to drive it and avoid the symptoms. Instead, park your car in a safe spot and trouble for the root of power steering failure.
You should also carefully drive your car to the nearest mechanic shop to inspect the whole power steering system. This way you can prevent power steering pump failure and fix the issue in the initial stage.
