Contact
Wodonga Power Steering Centre

Phone:(02)6024 6977
Fax: (02)6024 7699
Mobile: 0438246977

Trouble Shooting Guide

At Wodonga Power Steering Centre we are committed to complete customer service. As part of this commitment we have provided a trouble shooting guide containing a list of common symptoms your vehicle might display when there is a problem with your power steering system.

Please be aware that these are very broad terms and it is impossible to list all symptoms displayed by vehicles

Q1. I have power steering but it is still hard to steer what could be wrong?
Q2. There are noises coming from the power steering, is that OK?
Q3. There seems to be a tight spot when I turn, what can cause that?
Q4. My reservoir is covered with oil and always low what’s wrong?
Q5. I can smell hot oil from my power steering is that normal?
Q6. There is a lot of free play in my steering wheel, can you tell me why?
Q7. The steering seems to be tight is that normal?
Q8. The car is wandering on the road, What is the cause?

A1. The following are the possibilities for hard steering Top

• Loose power steering belt

• Faulty steering pump

• Steering out of alignment

• Air in power steering system

• Binding steering column

• Low pump output or leaks in system

• Obstruction in line

• Internal leakage in steering components

• Low power steering fluid

• Restriction in pump flow

A2. Some noises from power steering are part of normal operation like a hissing noise when on full lock. This noise is the relief valve on the pump, it should stop when you move the wheel off full lock. A hissing sound coming from pump when you move the wheel is also quite normal, again this should also stop wheel the wheel is not moved. Top

Some noises such as squealing when you move the wheel is abnormal this could indicate that the belt is worn.
“Clicking or Clunking” noises when you turn could indicate loose or worn power steering components. Top

A3. The possible causes of binding or seizing of the steering are: Top

• Worn or seized universal joints in the steering column or intermediate shaft

• Insufficient pump flow

A4. Oil can be forced from the reservoir for the following reasons: Top

• Clogging oil filter

• Loose drive belt

• Air in system

• Operating temperature too high

A5. Overheating of the power steering can be caused by: Top

• Pump Flow too high

• Air trapped in power steering system

A6. Steering play can be caused by many things, here are just  few main reasons: Top

• Steering wheel loose at column

• Loose or worn universal joints

• Pitman arm loose

• Steering box or rack loose on mounting bolts

• Steering box or rack improperly adjusted

A7. Possible causes of tight steering Top

• Tyre pressure too low

• Steering box or rack improperly adjusted

• front end alignment incorrectly adjusted

• Insufficient pump flow

• Restricted hoses or clogged filter

• Components of steering system binding or seizing

A8. Wandering of the car on the road may be the result of: Top

• Air in the system

• Oil flow too high

• Excessive wear or damage to steering gear

• Loose or worn wheel bearings

• Play in the Pitman arm

• Steering box or rack improperly adjusted

If your car is displaying symptoms of the above or others, we strongly recommend that you take your car to be inspected by a professional to ensure the safety of you and your family as well as other road users. Top