Power Steering: What It Is and What to Do if It Fails While Driving
Imagine you’re driving home from tonight’s Taste of Louisville when suddenly your power steering goes out. But, you don’t panic because you’ve taken the time to read over this blog and now you know what to do. Because we in Louisville are a savvy bunch.
Power steering is a component of your steering system that makes turning your vehicle’s wheels effortless, even at low speeds. And without it, maneuvering your car would be incredibly difficult, especially in tight spots or while parking. But what happens when power steering fails while you’re driving? Knowing what to do in this situation can make all the difference between a safe recovery and a dangerous situation. So, in this blog, the experts at Meineke in Louisville review the details of your car or truck’s power steering and what to do if it fails while you’re on the road.
First Things First: How Your Power Steering Works.
Power steering uses hydraulic or electric assistance to reduce the amount of effort needed to turn the steering wheel. Older systems typically rely on hydraulic pumps driven by the engine. Whereas, newer vehicles often use electric motors for a smoother and more energy-efficient experience. So, when your power steering is functioning properly, you can steer your vehicle easily, even at a standstill.
Signs of Power Steering Failure
Power steering failure doesn’t always happen suddenly. And there are warning signs that can alert you to an impending issue, such as:
- Squealing or whining noises when you turn the wheel.
- Stiff or jerky steering, especially at lower speeds.
- A steering warning light on your dashboard.
So if you notice any of these signs, it’s best to get your vehicle checked by the ASE certified mechanics at Meineke in Louisville right away. Because this way you can avoid a full failure while on the road.
What to Do If Power Steering Fails While Driving
Even if you maintain your vehicle, power steering failure can still happen unexpectedly. So, let’s take a look at what you should do if this happens.
1. Stay Calm and Focused
When the power steering goes out, your ability to steer becomes more difficult but not impossible. So, the first thing to remember is to stay calm. Because, panicking could cause you to overreact or make steering even harder.
2. Grip the Wheel Firmly
Steering without power assistance requires significantly more effort. So, grip the wheel with both hands to maintain control. Because at higher speeds, turning the wheel may still be manageable. But as you slow down, you’ll need to exert more strength.
3. Slow Down Gradually
Don’t slam on the brakes. Instead, gently ease off the accelerator and let your vehicle slow down gradually. Because sudden braking could cause you to lose control, especially if you’re trying to steer at the same time.
4. Turn on Hazard Lights
Activate your hazard lights to alert other drivers that something is wrong with your vehicle. And this is especially important if you’re on a busy road or highway, as it lets other drivers know to give you more space.
5. Pull Over to Safety
Steer your vehicle off to the side of the road once you’ve slowed down enough. And find a safe location, such as a shoulder or parking lot, where you can stop and assess the situation.
6. Call for Assistance
After pulling over, it’s best to call a tow truck or roadside assistance to have your vehicle checked. Because continuing to drive with a failed power steering system can put you and others at risk. And this is especially true if you need to make quick turns or emergency maneuvers.
What Causes Power Steering Failure?
Power steering failure can happen due to several reasons, including:
- Low power steering fluid (for hydraulic systems).
- A broken belt that drives the power steering pump.
- Electrical issues in electric power steering systems.
- Worn-out steering components, like the steering rack or tie rods.
Preventing Power Steering Issues
Regular maintenance is the best way to avoid power steering failure. So, check your power steering fluid levels periodically, listen for unusual noises when turning, and have your steering system inspected at Meineke on Shelbyville road in Louisville during your routine service appointments.
Meineke Can Help With Your Car or Truck’s Steering System Problems
Power steering failure is rare but can be a serious issue when it occurs. So, by staying calm, slowing down gradually, and pulling over to a safe area, you can avoid turning a stressful situation into an accident. Also, regular maintenance and early detection of any issues with your steering system are essential for preventing a breakdown on the road. And the experts at Meineke on Shelbyville Road in Louisville can help to ensure you are safe on the road.
If the Meineke on Shelbyville Road in Louisville is not a convenient auto repair center for you, Meineke has 15 car repair centers is Kentucky:
Meineke Car Care – Dixie Hwy.
5326 DIXIE HWY
Louisville, KY 40216
Call (844) 311-4548
Meineke Car Care – Preston Hwy.
7103 Preston Highway
Louisville, KY 40219
Call (844) 605-8457
Meineke Car Care – Bardstown Rd.
4170 Bardstown Road
Louisville, KY 40218
Call (844) 321-3541
Meineke Car Care – East. Broadway
701 East Broadway
Louisville, KY 40202
Call (855) 973-7820
Meineke Car Care – Outer Loop
6420 Outer Loop
Louisville, KY 40228
Call (844) 417-2336
Meineke Car Care – Shelbyville Rd.
11514 Shelbyville Road
Louisville, KY 40243
Call (844) 352-0216
Meineke Car Care – Dupont Rd.
1019 Dupont Road
Louisville, KY 40207
Call (502) 791-9526
Meineke Car Care – Plantside Dr.
10723 Plantside Drive
Louisville, KY 40299
Call (502) 536-9765
Meineke Car Care – So. Dixie Blvd.
2197 South Dixie Blvd.
Radcliff, KY 40160
Call (866) 548-1474
Meineke Car Care – Shelbyville Rd.
3949 Shelbyville Rd
St. Matthews, KY 40207
Call (888) 633-4889
Meineke Car Care – N. Dixie Hwy.
1400 N. Dixie Hwy.
Elizabethtown, KY 42701
Call (877) 439-7844
Meineke Car Care – Midland Trail
2000 Midland Trail
Shelbyville, KY 40065
Call (844) 681-4659
Meineke Car Care – W. Hwy. 146
3717 KY-146
Buckner, KY 40010
Call (844) 353-6212
Meineke Car Care – Peachtree Rd.
100 Peachtree Road
Nicholasville, KY 40356
Call (859) 687-8290
Meineke Car Care – Arrowhead Ct.
101 Arrowhead Court
Frankfort, KY 40601
Call (833) 723-5010
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