Yes, the power steering pump can malfunction. If your vehicle has a hydraulic power steering system, it has a power steering pump that circulates the fluid through the system. This pump is generally powered by engine vacuum pressure. JTR Repair advises that the original power steering pump from the factory will last about 100,000 miles. If you drive a vehicle that is high-mileage, you may notice one or more of the following problems listed below that indicate that your power steering pump is malfunctioning.
Strange Steering Noises
One of the first things that happens with the faulty power steering pump is your vehicle starts to make noises when you turn the steering wheel. The most common sound is groaning. You will hear the sound when you turn the steering wheel to navigate your vehicle in a different direction. Unfortunately, the groaning will continue until you replace the faulty power steering pump.
Another sound you might hear is whining. Generally, the steering wheel will whine when you’ve cranked it tightly. In other words, you’ve turned it as far as it can go. This, too, is an indication that the power steering pump is having problems and needs to be serviced or replaced. Until you address the power steering pump problems, you will hear the whining sounds.
Finally, you may hear a loud squealing noise when you first start your car, truck, or utility vehicle. This can be an indication that the accessory belt to which the power steering pump is attached is too loose. Tightening the belt usually resolves the noise. This being said, however, the power steering pump might squeal, as well, if it is having problems.
Tight Steering Wheel
Another sign that your power steering pump is going out is if the steering wheel feels very tight. In fact, you may feel as if you’re vehicle suddenly has manual steering instead of power steering because the steering wheel is harder to turn. As an aside, this can also be a sign that you have very low power steering fluid. Continuing to drive with the low fluid can damage the power steering system.
Non-Responsive Wheel
Finally, if your power steering pump goes out, the wheel may become non-responsive. No matter how hard you turn the steering wheel, your vehicle may not change directions. It’s important to have the power steering pump inspected right away if you experience this problem. Being unable to turn your automobile can make driving it very dangerous.
JTR Repair in Crawfordsville, IN, would be happy to help, so give us a call today to schedule an appointment for your automobile.
