The Main Cause of Heavy Power Steering
Power steering is one of the important components of a car. The power steering function itself so that the driver can be lighter when moving the wheels. When the steering wheel starts to feel heavy, then this could be a sign that there are some problematic components. Power steering itself comes with two types, namely Hydraulic Power Steering (HPS) and Electric Power Steering (EPS). This car component works by using a fluid that can create pressure on the wheels to change direction.
At least, there are four reasons that make this power steering feel heavy, these are the causes:
1. Steering Rack Broken:
This steering rack has the function to lighten the steering load. Inside there is a control valve that controls the fluid flow, the steering shaft, and also the steering rack seal. If there is damage to one of the components such as the control valve which will make the fluid flow irregular, the action to relieve steering actually cannot occur. Likewise, if the steering shaft wears out, it will make the steering heavy and make a sound when turning. To find out more about this steering rack problem, you needs to take it to a subscribed car repair shop. Because to check it, the car needs to be lifted first because this component is located under the car. If it is true that one of the components in the steering rack is damaged, then you need to replace it immediately with a new set of steering rack. To repair each component is very difficult, even if it could not last long. So the only way that can be done is to replace a set of this steering rack.
2. Low Tire Pressure:
The low air pressure in the tires can also affect the power steering to be heavy when turned. Because the car tires themselves are still a system with power steering. If the car tires are under-inflated, the power steering will work even more.
3. Reduced Power Steering Fluid:
This power steering fluid is useful for applying pressure to the piston in the pinion and rack. If the fluid is reduced, then the pressure exerted on the piston will also decrease. In HPS type power steering, leakage of this fluid is often the cause of damage to the power steering.
4. Power Steering Belt Broken:
This part contributes to making the steering wheel turn light. The power steering belt has the same function as other belts, namely to start and stop turning. The belt itself is made of rubber, and if this rubber loosens, the power steering will become heavy. And that's the reason or cause of the power steering to be heavy, to minimize this from happening, carry out routine maintenance and don't forget to continue to pay attention to the vehicle. However, you don't need to worry, you will provide tips for properly and correctly caring for the power steering. Check out the steps:
Avoid Broken Road:
As much as possible avoid damaged roads or potholes. If you have to, try to go through the damaged road very slowly. Power steering is indeed very quickly damaged by reckless driving on unfriendly roads. Because of the strong shocks and also the hard beat on the axle steering, it could damage this component. For that, pay attention to the road and don't be reckless on the road.
Avoid Flood:
This is clear, not only for the power steering, other components are likely to be damaged if exposed to a high enough flood. However, power steering can be the main target, especially electric cars that are installed right on the steering axle that is parallel to the axle. Floods will be very easy to soak this component. Of course, if it gets wet, this electrical component must be replaced because it cannot be repaired.
Check Power Steering Age:
This electronic device has an age limit of about five years. When it's time to replace it, replace it immediately. Do not delay until it is damaged and problematic. Because it will have a direct impact on the safety.
Usage 100 Thousand Km:
The use of cars that have reached about 100 thousand km can have a big impact. Coupled with how to use reckless as already described at the beginning. Possibly before traveling 100 thousand km, the power steering must be replaced immediately.
Tire Position When Parking:
Well, this is what happens most often. When parking a vehicle, usually most people will leave the car in a state of motorcycle tires that are turning or not straight. This results in components such as the power steering and ball joints having a shorter life. Imagine, with just a trivial mistake like that, you can make your favorite car not perfect.
