There are distinct parts of the automobile that are extremely necessary for your safety. While some are well known, like your brakes, airbag, and seatbelt, some aren't talked about enough, like the power steering pump. Your power steering pump is a vital part that you need to have working for your car to run safely and smoothly. Its job is to apply the right amount of pressure to your wheels so that you can have proper control and steering of your vehicle. Below are several of the signs that your power steering pump may be giving out:
Sign #1 - Whining Noise When You're Turning the Wheel
Whenever you hear an unusual sound come from your car, you know that it's almost always never a good sign. If it occurs only when you're turning or moving the steering wheel, you know that the problem is probably coming from the steering system. You may have a fluid leak in the power steering pump. If you let it run close to empty, your entire steering system can fail, so please immediately get your car to a repair shop.
Sign #2 - Stiff or Slow Responding Steering Wheel
There's nothing more aggravating than having to use full force to turn your steering wheel. Usually, when you have to exert that much energy, it means your power steering pump is failing.
Sign #3 - Squealing Noise After Starting Car
When you have a damaged power steering pump, it can emit a squeaking sound right after turning on your vehicle. This sound can persist for a minute or so before dying down.
Sign #4 - Red-Brown Fluid Leak Around Vehicle
You may also narrow down your steering problem by simply inspecting your car's surroundings. A crack in the pump housing region or the fluid tank can leak onto the ground. The power steering fluid is usually a reddish-brown color.
Please take your car to our Brentwood auto repair shop as soon as you notice any of these signs. If you are looking for reliable power steering pump repair, please call or visit Monkey Wrenches today.