Symptoms of a power steering pump failure

The power steering pump (PSU) – is an important component of the steering system of the car, which provides comfortable and easy control of the vehicle. Its main task is to create pressure in the hydraulic system, which helps the driver to turn the steering wheel without significant effort. Malfunctions of this pump can lead to difficulty in steering and even danger while driving. Therefore, it is very important to be able to see the signs of a broken power steering pump so that you can fix the problems in time.

It is very important to be able to see the signs of a broken power steering pump so that you can fix the problems in time.

Causes of pump failure

The life of the power steering pump depends on compliance with the rules of operation of the unit. Some of the following things can shorten the service life of the unit:

• Mechanical wear. Over time, pump components wear out, resulting in a loss of efficiency.
• Inadequate hydraulic fluid level. Leakage or low fluid level increases the load on the pump.
• Using poor quality or unsuitable fluid or not changing it in time. Out-of-tolerance oil or an old mixture with wear products of the working pair clogs the pump and destroys the components of the unit.
• Air infiltration into the system. Aeration of the hydraulic fluid reduces its efficiency and can damage the pump.
• System overheating. Prolonged overloading (steering wheel in extreme positions for more than 5 seconds) can cause overheating and pump failure.
• Driving style. When driving aggressively, especially off-road, the pump elements can get stuck and jam.
• Excessive drive belt tension. An overtightened belt gradually wears out the bearing and bushings in the pumps.

Each of these factors, and even more so several of them, can cause premature pump failure and therefore power steering failure.

Pump Failures and Signs of Failure

The main symptoms that can indicate a faulty power steering pump:

• Noise when turning the steering wheel. A whistling, squeaking, or murmuring noise may indicate worn pump bearings or fluid problems.
• Heaviness when turning the steering wheel. If the steering wheel feels heavier to turn, it may indicate a drop in system pressure.
• Rudder vibration. While driving or standing still, the steering wheel may shake, indicating a problem with the pump or hydraulic system.
• Hydraulic fluid leakage. This will be indicated by stains under the vehicle and/or a drop in the fluid level in the reservoir.
• Foam in the hydraulic fluid reservoir. This is an indication of air in the system.

Let's take a closer look at the most common breakdowns and their causes.

A constant hum is most often a sign of the pump's inability to generate the required pressure. This can be caused by worn shaft bearings (in which case the pump will be humming all the time and the sound will increase with increasing engine speed), oil intake plates or working pairs, or uneven wear on the inside of the stator.

A constant hum is most often a sign that the pump is unable to build up the required pressure.

An extraneous whistling and squealing noise when turning the steering wheel occurs if the drive belt is not tight enough on the hub and slips during moments of load. Another possible cause is belt wear and stretching.

Heavy steering. If the steering wheel becomes lighter as the engine speed increases, it means that the working pair of the unit is worn out. If the steering wheel won't turn at all, there could be several reasons:

Heavy steering wheel.

• burrs and serious damage to the reduction valve, because of which the element jams;
• complete pump failure;
• ring wear of the distributor housing of the rack.

Any suspicion that the power steering pump has failed or is not working properly, it is better to immediately contact a car service. The maximum that a person who has no relevant repair experience can do – check the condition and operability of the system. But even if the cause of breakdown was found, most likely, it is unlikely to be possible to eliminate it independently and qualitatively. In addition, pump failure – serious reason to check the entire steering, as the failure of one unit always affects the work of other units and elements of the system.

Checking the pump. What to do when a fault is detected step by step

Indicator (control lamp) of power steering on the dashboard – this is the first information about existing problems that the driver can get from the car. If there is such an indication, it is possible to check the node with the help of diagnostic equipment – scanner. However, not all cars have such devices - especially those with simple, non-electric, power steering pumps, the signs of which can only be heard and seen.

To diagnose such steering units, the driver should follow these steps:

1. Check fluid level. Open the hydraulic fluid reservoir and check the fluid level and condition.
2. Inspect the pump drive belt. Check that the belt is not worn or cracked.
3. Listen for sounds. Start the engine and turn the steering wheel, paying attention to any sounds.
4. Check the pressure in the system. This can be done with a special pressure gauge (if you have the necessary equipment).
5. Electrical power supply. If the car is equipped with electrohydraulic power steering, it is also worth checking the fuse, contacts and the integrity of the wiring.

How can I tell if the power steering pump needs replacing?

If the level and colour of the fluid in the system are normal, the pump drive belt has the correct tension, but the pump still works incorrectly: does not provide working pressure, emits extraneous sounds, it means that it requires replacement or at least qualified repair.

When to call in the professionals

Call a professional if:

• You are unable to determine the cause of the fault yourself.
• You do not have the necessary equipment for diagnostics.
• Driving problems pose a safety hazard.

Can I drive with a damaged power steering system?

Driving with a defective power steering pump is possible, but not desirable. Heavy steering makes manoeuvring difficult and increases the risk of an accident. In addition, continued operation of a defective system may cause further damage to the steering mechanism.

Consequences of driving with a defective power steering system

• Excessive stress on the steering components. This can lead to accelerated component wear.
• Risk of steering failure. In critical situations, the steering wheel may lose its ease of rotation completely.
• An increased likelihood of accidents. Difficulty in manoeuvring increases the risk of accidents.
• Damage to the pump and hydraulic system. Lack of timely repair can lead to more serious damage

How to avoid power steering pump failures

The condition and service life of the units of the car depend on your attitude to the car, on the regularity of inspection, on the quality of spare parts, components, technical fluids and fuels and lubricants. To avoid problems, do the following to avoid waiting for signs of a damaged power steering pump:

See the following procedures.

• Check the hydraulic fluid level regularly and change it at least every 15,000 kilometres.
• Use only the oil recommended for your vehicle.
• Check the drive belt for wear.
• Have your vehicle serviced at regular intervals.
• Avoid overloading the steering system. Do not hold the steering wheel at the end point with force for long periods of time
• It is advisable not to turn the steering wheel for the first 1-5 minutes until the system has warmed up. This is especially true in the cold season.

In case of fluid leakage it is better not to use sealants and additives, and as soon as possible to contact a car service. Best of all - to those who have many years of experience, to STS.PARTS.