SIGNS YOUR POWER STEERING PUMP IS FAILING

Posted on 12/21/2021.  By The Auto Doc

Many years ago, vehicles were not equipped with power steering. This mechanism makes it significantly easier for drivers to turn or maneuver their wheels at lower speeds. Nowadays, most drivers take their power steering for granted. When the power steering stops functioning, you should immediately discontinue operating the vehicle until the necessary repairs are made.

SIGNS OF A FAILING POWER STEERING PUMP

As long as your steering works, you should be fine to drive (right?). Well, there are a few signs that your power steering pump may show that may signal an imminent failure.

• Whining or groaning noise when you turn your wheel
• Stiffness in the steering wheel
• Steering wheel is overall slow to respond 
• Squealing sound when you turn your key in the ignition
• Power steering fluid leak

If the power steering pump is still functional and still provides some power steering capabilities, then you are okay to operate your vehicle for short trips.  Once the power steering pump breaks down, it can cause other parts of the vehicle to start wearing down quickly. It is best to have the issue taken care of as soon as you encounter one or more of the signs listed above.