Experiencing a loss of vehicle control is, by far, one of the scariest circumstances motorists can face on the road. Sometimes, speeding or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol triggers it. Other times, aggressive driving or road rage is the cause. But what about instances that occur out of your power? For example, what if you suddenly find your steering wheel hard to turn and can’t control your car?
A functioning steering wheel is a critical automobile control mechanism that guides your vehicle in the direction you want. Without one, your inability to turn the wheel could lead to a car accident and/or serious injuries. So what causes a steering wheel to go stiff, and how can you fix it before facing a more dangerous situation? Let’s discuss a few possibilities and how you might remedy the problems.
When power steering starts to fail, several issues can be the cause. While hearing whining noises from your wheels when driving is a strong indication of a steering issue, a power steering fluid leak is one of the most noticeable clues. The quickest way to find out if this is the case for you is to check for oil stains under your vehicle near the engine. You may have a leak if you see residue on the ground with a red, pink, or clear tint. Seeing black, yellow, or brown oil—or residue with a milky consistency—can indicate that the oil is well past its expiration date and requires a flush with new oil.
Simply being low on the power-steering fluid can also cause a stiff steering wheel. You can inspect your fluid level by finding the reservoir near the power-steering belt in your engine bay, which is a cylinder shape. If the fluid level is low, and you’re comfortable filling the reservoir with new fluid, go ahead and add it. But double-check that you are using the correct product for your vehicle beforehand.
Another option is contacting your certified mechanic and describing what you see. The technician will likely advise you to schedule an appointment ASAP to inspect the hose, clamps, and steering pump to find the source of the leak. Remember, driving with a compromised steering system is dangerous. Therefore, getting a tow to your auto repair shop will help keep you safe and prevent additional damage to your power steering system and vehicle.
A stiff, difficult-to-turn steering wheel can also result from inadequate tire air pressure. Yet thankfully, fixing the problem is generally straightforward, and you can quickly do it from home or a nearby gas station. But before you fill your tires, check the recommended PSI level for your vehicle first.
If you need help locating the information, look inside your driver’s door for a sticker or the vehicle’s owner’s manual. Most tire pressure ranges fall between 32 and 35 PSI (pound per square inch). However, vehicle type, tires, and outdoor temperature also contribute to the desired PSI level. To check your tire pressure, you can do it manually using a gauge or stop by a nearby gas station to use the air pump machine. Another option is visiting the business where you purchased your tires. Goodyear, for example, offers a free “Tire Air Pressure Check” to its customers. However, suppose one or more tires do not maintain the proper PSI after adding air. In that case, you will need to investigate the issue further. You may need a patch or replacement.
Over time, car parts start to wear and can break down completely. But sometimes, diagnosing the problem can be challenging, especially when you need more experience to identify the issue. Consider the following examples of damaged parts that can affect your steering and how your certified mechanic can fix them:
Keep in mind that all three of these vehicle components generally wear when a vehicle nears the 100,000-mile mark. Still, improper upkeep and driving conditions can impact the rate at which these parts deteriorate or fail. Sticking to a routine maintenance schedule and investigating strange noises, smells, and leaks can help extend the life of your vehicle and prevent additional damage and breakdowns.
Yes! Securing reliable breakdown coverage can be invaluable, especially when facing high repair costs for part malfunctions. Likewise, having a policy with additional perks—like coverage for tire damage because of road hazards or roadside help and free towing services—can help to save you even more on car expenses—down the road.
Before you find yourself responsible for paying an auto repair bill you can’t afford, check out our top auto warranty companies. Explore why we rate our recommendations among the best available and how one may be the best fit for you.
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