How to Correct a Hard Steering Problem Hard or stiff steering for a vehicle is
frustrating to say the least and can be dangerous as well. You have to count on
proper steering at all times. This article will help you troubleshoot a hard
steering problem which you may be able to fix yourself. Instructions 1 Check the
air pressure in your tires. All tires should have equal air and filled according
to the manufacturer's recommended PSI. Improper amounts of air in
tires,especially if they are too low,can cause hard and stiff steering mx-sensor.
2 Check your power steering fluid level and condition. Lack of fluid will cause
stiff and hard steering. Maintain the fluid at proper full level and the color
should be dark reddish in color. If the fluid is very old and too dark you may
want to change the fluid. 3 Inspect the pulley on the power steering unit with
the car engine "off." Proper tension is no more than 3/4 or 1 inch of play.
Press down on the belt with your thumb to check tension. Be sure the condition
of the pulley belt is good without frayed edges or cracks. Also perform a visual
inspection with the engine running to be certain that the pulley belt is turning
the pulley smoothly. If the belt is slipping you can encounter erratic and stiff
steering. 4 Inspect the power steering unit. You can visually check for fluid
leaks at connecting pressure hoses OBD
Tool. A leak here will reduce your pressure and thus cause hard steering.
Another test would be to run the engine and while in park have someone turn the
wheels back and forth as you listen for any squealing or bearing sounds coming
from the unit. If the fluid is low or the belt is bad you may also encounter a
squealing sound,so be sure these items have been checked first. 5 Inspect the
front end parts such as the ball joints and tie rod ends for lubrication and
wear. Either of these situations can cause hard steering and too much wear on
these parts can be dangerous as well. 6 Check to be sure that you have proper
front end alignment. A tell tale sign would be uneven front tire wear and
pulling to one side while driving. If the wheels are not aligned properly,you
can also encounter hard and stiff steering,especially while making turns. Tips
& Warnings ?Best to check the simple items first like air pressure in tires
and power steering fluid level. ?It can be very dangerous to drive a vehicle
with hard or stiff steering and until you can detect and solve the problem you
don't want to run the risk of the steering going out completely while driving.
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