Bellflower Power Steering Repair
Have you ever started making a turn onto Alondra Boulevard in Bellflower and thought what would happen if I lost power steering right now? Of course this is a rare scenario, but if it does happen, first of all, 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 Bellflower.
Besides not panicking another simple but important thing to do is communication. 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 way to do this is to activate your hazard lights so that everyone around you will notice that you are starting to slow down or that there may be an issue with your vehicle. It’s always a good idea to locate were the hazard lights button is located when driving in a new vehicle.
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 icy or wet. The lack of power steering will make the steering wheel feel heavy in your hands, and it will also make the front wheels less responsive to your actions. Maintain keeping calm and ease into the brakes slowly.
The next thing you should do if you lose power steering is to look for a safe spot on the side of the road where you can pull over without incident. 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 the right time to call for a tow truck or Orozco’s Auto Service of Bellflower 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
The Hydraulic Power Steering System relies on a hydraulic pump, the engine’s power, 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 does the power steering pump pressurize the fluid and deliver it to assist you in steering.
Electrical Power Steering relies on a 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, which is located at the base of the steering column. This motor then turns and aids the driver with the steering process.
There are some signs you can be aware of that your power steering may soon be in need of repair. It could be difficult turning the steering wheel. You may notice a whining or squealing noise. You may notice leaking power steering fluid near the steering gear or rack, this is usually a red fluid. Your vehicle may wanders or pulls to one side. This could be a premature steering gear is worn and or can be caused by lack of lubrication from power steering fluid.
If you are 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 Bellflower today at 562-920-1871. Please 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 Bellflower – Los Angeles County CA
9665 Alondra Blvd. Bellflower, CA 90706, USA
Call Today: 562-920-1871 – Auto/Fleet/Diesel Service Repair
Orozco’s Auto Service has five convenient locations throughout Los Angeles and Orange Counties Long Beach, Bellflower, Garden Grove or Fullerton!
