Most modern cars amount equipped with powersteering , but as systems age they can wear out . Problems with alliance or the baron guidance ticker can also induce the powerfulness steering system to turn back working — and nobody wants a stiff steering wheel .

If you find yourself taking a acute leftfield and wondering , " Why is my steering steering wheel hard to turn ? " keep abreast the simple tips and technique below to diagnose your power direction trouble .

Check the Power Steering Fluid Level

If there ’s not enough power direction fluid , it ’ll be operose to make turns . Unscrew the crown of the king direction pump and tick off the fluid level .

If it ’s not full , buy top executive steering fluid from your local self-propelled supply store and refill the ticker . If you have to add power guidance fluid ofttimes , you may have a news leak in your car ’s guidance system .

Check for Leaks

Inspect the hosiery and lines around the exponent direction ticker for possible leaks .

swipe the front end of the car with a diddlyshit . ascertain the Navy SEAL of the single-foot and pennon for leak . If you have an sr. automobile , you may have a recirculating ball unit to check instead .

Check for Loose Belts

Have someone turn on theengineand turn your gondola ’s guidance wheel while you listen for any noise come from the pump . A trashy , screechy sound indicate a open great power steering belted ammunition that needs modification .

The drive swath , or serpentine belt , powers the power guidance ticker and other systems and should last 60,000 to 100,000 mil ( about 95,000 to 160,000 klick ) , consort toFirestone .

When to See a Mechanic

If none of these step pinpoints a problem , a mechanic can raise your car up on a lift or ramp to check for trouble under the car . A mechanic can also look for job within the steering column or direction single-foot .

Power Steering Problem FAQ

Two hands on a steering wheel.