how to fix power steering leaks

We want our customers to be as knowledgeable about how their cars work as we are, so they can stay safe on the road and enjoy their driving experiences.

Many customers try to drive while their car experiences problems, such as a power steering leak. Problems with your power steering fluid can negatively affect your driving. It may also put you and other drivers at risk. Learn more from the Fred Beans service center.

What is a Power Steering Leak?

Can You Drive with a Power Steering Leak? A power steering leak occurs when your car loses power steering fluid. Healthy steering fluid ensures your car handles properly, just as motor oil ensures your engine works. A decrease in power steering fluid, or an unmet need for a power steering flush, makes your car more difficult to drive.

You may notice your car hesitates when going around curves, or that you take sharp or blind curves much faster or slower than you should. You may also have trouble cornering or maneuvering in tight spaces, because without steering fluid, your wheel needs much more force to move. It might lock up altogether if you have driven with a steering fluid leak for several days or weeks.

Why is My Power Steering Fluid Leaking?

A leak in your power steering occurs for several reasons. As with many other car problems, time and wear are the most common. Your car's age and how often you drive it will determine when you experience your first leak. Be vigilant if you have a long commute, often drive at high speeds or need to negotiate heavy urban traffic regularly.

The more mileage your car piles on, the more your O-rings and seals break down. Often, pieces of these components will float in your steering fluid. The bigger the chunks of O-rings or seals, the harder it is for your wheel to move. During severe leaks, your fluid might seep out, leaving your car a mess, and you without reliable transportation.

During a leak, several components might leak or seep at once. Many of our drivers report it is difficult to tell which one is leaking and how badly, so we recommend having a technician look at your car. The leak could stem from the pump, valve, O-rings or seals, or all of these at once.

How is a Power Steering Leak Fixed?

In many cases, your car will need a power steering flush. A power steering flush will ensure the fluid is clean and free of debris. Your technician or mechanic will also need to tighten or replace certain parts.

For instance, you may need new hoses if yours have sustained significant wear. Your technician will tighten the nuts on your steering pump, check your seals and other components, bleed your lines and ensure your steering pump is filled to capacity. If your car needs new parts, we will order them immediately and get to work on your vehicle in record time.

The Bottom Line

So, can you drive with a power steering leak? Yes, technically you can but not for long because it will become increasingly more difficult to steer and extremely dangerous. Your best bet is to have a qualified technician assess your vehicle as soon as possible if you suspect a power steering leak.

Our service center at Fred Beans can handle this problem for you in a heartbeat. Give us a call today to schedule a service appointment!