A steering wheel is one of the main components of a car. It enables the drivers to control their vehicle’s direction.
What is the function of a steering wheel?
As a driver, you should know that a steering wheel allows you to control your vehicle better while driving on the road.
You can turn the tyres to the right and left without putting too much pressure. The steering wheel also helps you manage your vehicle smoothly on uneven roads.
The power steering system facilitates the front wheels’ movement, especially for heavy vehicles with heavy loads. It can increase stability at high speed while driving a car and reduce rotational force.
Types of power steering
There are two types of power steering systems based on the type and manufacturer of the vehicle. These two types of power steering systems have different user functions as follows:
Hydraulic power steering
The hydraulic power steering uses hydraulic pressure supplied by the pump to facilitate the rotation of the steering wheel.
Engine power will be used to move the pump to move the steering wheel easily.
Power steering oil is used as an energy delivery medium to allow the steering wheel to rotate easily. Reservoir tank, pump body and flow control valve are among the components of the power steering pump that help the vehicle’s steering wheel rotate through the internal combustion engine.
Electric power steering
The electric power steering system uses a direct current electric motor (DC motor) to lighten the load of rotating the vehicle’s steering wheel.
It does not use engine power but uses the motor entirely.
The system is equipped with a torque sensor and information from the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) to determine the vehicle speed and torque rates.
It is required to determine the direction and power assistance force needed for the steering system and then move the motor based on the required direction.
The use of electric steering is also more environmentally friendly as it does not use fluid to rotate the steering system. In addition, the steering wheel is easier to control when driving a vehicle and saves fluid consumption.
Early signs of faulty power steering
Most new car models are equipped with power steering. Generally, it is crucial to facilitate driving and provide comfort.
However, power steering has a certain lifespan and may wear out without proper service. You will have to pay attention to any damage or problem to your power steering wheel as it may risk your driving.
Bjak will share the early signs of faulty power steering so you can take immediate action.
Noisy sound when turning the wheel
If you hear an unusual sound while turning the wheel, it may indicate problems with your power steering wheel.
Additionally, the sound may be due to the vane pump that is no longer functioning.
Vibration on tyres
Vibration on tyres might be a sign of two problems; faulty tyre or car rim or faulty power steering.
This condition may also indicate a damaged or worn out fan belt.
Power steering fluid leakage
The power steering fluid leakage may affect your car’s power steering performance.
The leakage can occur in the hose line or reservoir tank.
The power steering fluid changes its colour
The power steering fuel ensures smooth control of the steering wheel. The colour changes of the power steering fluid could indicate that your power steering wheel is no longer in good condition.
We advise you to use high-quality power steering fluid to ensure that your car’s power steering can work properly.
Difficulty to turn the wheel
If you face difficulties turning the wheel, this may mean the power steering is damaged.
Do immediate inspection to check your car power steering
Please send your car to a workshop for inspection and service to save your car power steering from further damage that could cost you a lot of money.
Other than that, ensure safe and smooth driving on the road, such as not hitting any pothole or bumper that could hurt your steering wheel.
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