What is a power steering fluid service?
Power steering fluid has a usable lifespan. At some point in time, you will need to flush the power steering fluid in your vehicle and replace it with new fluid. Being that power steering is the system that allows you to control a 2000 pound object with minimal effort, it's pretty clear that ensuring that your power steering is operating at an optimal level is critical. If you've ever driven a classic car, or truck that doesn't have power steering, you can imagine what would happen if your power steering went out.
How does power steering work?
Have you ever been driving around Nelson, BC, and wondered how your power steering works? Power steering works to reduce the amount of effort needed from the driver to turn the steering wheel. Without power steering, steering your vehicle would be much more difficult. Power steering uses either a hydraulic system or an electrical system to assist the driver with steering the vehicle.
Power steering that utilizes a hydraulic system relies on a hydraulic pump, the engine’s power, and the hydraulic fluid to steer the vehicle. With the combination of the hydraulic pump and the vehicle’s engine, it applies force on the steering gear by pumping hydraulic fluid to the power steering pump. If your power steering pump needs repair, Downtown Automotive is your 1st choice. The power steering fluid is stored in a depressurized form within the power steering reservoir, and only when needed does the power steering pump pressurize the fluid and deliver it to assist in steering. Give Downtown Automotive a call if you have any questions regarding the steering system on your Honda, Subaru, Chevrolet, Nissan or other vehicles.
Unlike hydraulic power steering, electrical power steering relies on an electrical motor and sensors on the steering column. By analyzing the input from the steering wheel, the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) then sends a signal to the electronic motor, which is located on the end of the steering column. This motor then turns and aids the driver with the steering process. We at Downtown Automotive in Nelson have been performing power steering repairs on a multitude of vehicle makes since 1998, and our owner Doug Brackett makes sure their Expert technicians go through extensive auto repair training.
Here are some signs that your vehicle might need power steering fluid service:
Whining or squealing noise - If there is a whining or squealing noise while turning your steering wheel, chances are that your power steering needs to be inspected or repaired. The power steering belt may also be torn or damaged. This is a more serious issue and if this occurs, you should bring your vehicle to Downtown Automotive in Nelson as soon as possible.
Vibrations on the steering wheel - This could mean that the steering belt is damaged or loose. It is absolutely necessary to get this resolved as soon as possible as the power steering could malfunction and fail.
Difficulty turning the steering wheel - Power steering is designed to make steering much easier and convenient for drivers. If your steering wheel is stiff, this could mean your vehicle's fluid levels are low, in which case you would need to come into Downtown Automotive for a power steering fluid exchange service. If this is not the case, then there is a problem with your steering system. If you notice that you have difficulty when steering, it is important to get this issue inspected by our knowledgeable technicians as soon as possible.
Power steering fluid leak - If you notice that there is a fluid leak near the steering gear or rack, chances are that you have a power steering fluid leak. If there is a leak, this does not allow the hydraulic power steering system to work properly. If you are in Salmo, BC, Trail, BC, Nelson, BC, Balfour, BC, Castlegar, BC, or nearby, you can come to Downtown Automotive in Nelson to address any power steering problems.
Your vehicle wanders or pulls to one side - This often indicates a problem with worn steering gear. Premature steering gear wear can be caused by a lack of lubrication from power steering fluid, so you should also check for any power steering leaks when replacing a worn steering gear. We at Downtown Automotive in Nelson can also check for leaks when you bring your vehicle in.
Your Quality shop for Power Steering Repair
It is important to bring your vehicle to an auto repair shop that knows about your vehicle's specific parts and has experience in power steering repair. If you are in the V1L 6G6 area or nearby, that shop is Downtown Automotive. We specialize in automotive repair and preventive maintenance, and can also perform routine services on your vehicles, such as regular maintenance, and tune-ups. Reasons You Should Do Business With Us:
To schedule an appointment with Downtown Automotive in Nelson, give us a call or text at 250-505-2110 or schedule an appointment online at https://downtownautonelson.com/. Downtown Automotive - Auto Repair you Can Trust, at a Fair Price.