Long Beach, Bixby Knolls Power Steering Repair

There are some signs that everyone should be aware of that your power steering may soon be in need of repair.  Your steering wheel could be difficult turning. You may notice a whining or squealing noise. You may notice leaking red power steering fluid near the steering gear or rack. Your vehicle may be pulling to one side, which could be a steering gear is worn and or can be caused by lack of lubrication from power steering fluid.

Have you ever started turning onto Atlantic Avenue in Long Beach and thought what would happen if my power steering went out on this sharp turn? Of course this is a rare scenario, but if it does happen, don’t panic. Your vehicle’s power steering provides you with an electronic or hydraulic assist in turning your front wheels. If you’re moving at a decent speed you may not even notice it, until you start to slow down. At that point turning the steering wheel is difficult but with a little strength you will be able to pull over and make it to a safe place to stop or visit your friends at Orozco’s Auto Service of Long Beach, Bixby Knolls.

So besides “don’t panic” another important and simple thing you should do is communicate. As in any emergency situation on or off the road is it’s vital to let others around you know that something has gone wrong. The quickest and easiest way to do this is to turn on your hazard lights so that everyone around you can see that there’s a problem. And that you’re starting to slow down or that there may be an issue with your vehicle.  Whenever getting into a new vehicles it’s always a good idea to find were the hazard lights button is located.

As you gently lower your speed, keep a firm grip on the wheel at all times and don’t hit your brakes too hard, especially if the road conditions are slick from snow or rain. Lack of power steering will make the steering wheel feel heavier than normal as you turn, and it will also make the front wheels less responsive to your actions. Maintain keeping calm and ease into the brakes slowly.

Next, you should look for a safe spot on the side of the road where you can pull over safely. You will still be able to steer the vehicle, even if it’s more difficult. Remember that turning the wheel requires more effort as your vehicle slows. Give yourself as much room to turn as possible. Even though the turning radius of the vehicle hasn’t changed, your ability to make that turn quickly will be reduced.

Once you get your vehicle to a safe spot, if the power steering is completely out, this may be a good time to call for a tow truck or Orozco’s Auto Service of Long Beach, Bixby Knolls to help you arrange a tow. Driving a vehicle with no power steering can be a challenge for even the best of drivers, so if you don’t feel safe driving, always side with caution and get help.

There Are Two Kinds of 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 an electronic motor, that is located at the base of the steering column.

The Hydraulic Power Steering System relies on the engine’s power, a hydraulic pump, 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. The power steering fluid is stored in a depressurized form within the power steering reservoir, and only when needed the power steering pump pressurizes the fluid and deliver it to assist you’re steering.

If you’re concerned about any of your power steering or you would like to have your steering inspected call the experts at Orozco’s Auto Service of Long Beach, Bixby Knolls today at 562-427-4256. Remember to always keep your vehicle in good condition and ensure the safety of yourself, your loved ones, and those around you!

Orozco’s Auto Service Long Beach / Bixby Knolls – Los Angeles County CA
3619 Atlantic Avenue, Long Beach, CA USA
Call Today: 562-427-4256 – Auto/Fleet/Diesel Service Repair

https://orozcosautoservice.com

Orozco’s Auto Service has five convenient locations throughout Los Angeles and Orange Counties Long Beach, Bellflower, Garden Grove or Fullerton!