This article was co-authored by Hovig Manouchekian and by How.com.vn staff writer, Luke Smith, MFA. Hovig Manouchekian is an Auto Repair and Design Specialist and the Manager of Funk Brothers Auto, a family-owned business operated since 1925. With over 30 years of experience in the automotive industry, Hovig specializes in the process of auto repair and maintenance. He is also very knowledgeable in common automotive issues and needs including engine repair, battery replacement, and windshield accessory and maintenance. Hovig's knowledge and hard work have contributed to Funk Brothers Auto winning Angie's List Super Service Award for five consecutive years.
There are 11 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page.
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Power steering is that miraculous automotive system that takes all the effort out of turning your car’s steering wheel. But a number of mechanical issues can interfere with this system, making your wheel difficult to move in either direction. Those issues include low steering fluid, low tire pressure, and misaligned wheels. We’ll fill you in on the top 7 probable causes, how to diagnose them, and what to do next to get your car back on the road ASAP.
Things You Should Know
- The most common cause of a stiff steering wheel is low or contaminated power steering fluid. Check this fluid, and flush and refill it as needed.
- Low tire pressure, play from the steering wheel, misaligned wheels or warped rotors are also common causes of a hard-to-turn steering wheel and are often accompanied by sluggish or jerky handling.
- Less common (but entirely possible) causes include mechanical issues like a damaged serpentine belt, ball joint, or steering rack.
Steps
Expert Q&A
Tips
- The systems in this article vary in design and location from car to car. If you’re ever in doubt about how they work or where to find them, consult your car’s owner manual or a mechanic for help.Thanks
- The best way to diagnose any mechanic problem is to visit a trained professional for expert insight and advice.Thanks
Expert Interview
Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about car maintenance and repair, check out our in-depth interview with Hovig Manouchekian.
References
- ↑ https://www.jdpower.com/cars/shopping-guides/do-you-need-to-change-your-cars-power-steering-fluid
- ↑ https://www.sae.org/publications/technical-papers/content/970954/
- ↑ https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/tire-buying-maintenance/how-to-save-money-when-buying-replacement-tires-a6799675738/
- ↑ https://www.themechanicdoctor.com/fixing-car-alignment-at-home/
- ↑ https://www.kbb.com/car-advice/what-is-wheel-alignment/#link4
- ↑ https://www.jdpower.com/cars/shopping-guides/how-much-does-a-wheel-alignment-cost-on-a-car
- ↑ https://www.howacarworks.com/steering/adjusting-and-replacing-a-power-steering-drive-belt
- ↑ https://www.jdpower.com/cars/shopping-guides/how-much-does-it-cost-to-replace-a-power-steering-pump
- ↑ https://www.jdpower.com/cars/shopping-guides/how-much-does-it-cost-to-replace-a-suspension-ball-joint-on-a-car
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