Steering systems

A steering system should ensure adequate quality of vehicle management. This function is crucial for driving safety and driver satisfaction. A good and high-quality vehicle control system reduces driver fatigue while driving.

Loose and worn parts of the steering system can cause incorrect steering, which causes the driver to turn the steering wheel continuously to keep the vehicle moving. A faulty steering system leads to premature driver fatigue. Also, when the power steering system is working, poor steering is difficult, which causes additional stress to the driver while driving.

If a component in the steering system fails and shuts down, the driver may lose control completely, leading to a vehicle collision and injury to the occupants

Mechanical steering system

Mechanical steering system

Regular maintenance ensures a safe steering system. Also, any problems that arise must be diagnosed and fixed without delay. If the repair is not carried out in time or is performed incorrectly, there may be a loss of control over the vehicle and an accident. Therefore, follow the instructions from the vehicle manufacturer regarding regular inspection and repair of the steering system.

Steering systems are mostly mechanical, so visual inspections and physical measurements make up a good portion of maintenance and diagnosis tasks. Mechanical components wear out over time, reduce their functionality and eventually fail. But as more and more electronic power steering is introduced, electrical failures are becoming more common. The sensors are also subject to wear, resulting in inaccurate readings and incorrect reactions. Wires are subject to damage, breaks and loose or corroded connections.

Electronic steering system

Electronic steering system

When a problem occurs in the control system and performs diagnostics, it is important to consider both the mechanical and electrical components. Also, since the suspension system is directly connected to the steering system and helps keep the wheels in proper geometry, any suspension problems can affect the steering system. Thus, sometimes the cause of the steering problem may be due to some component in the suspension system.

When working on the steering system, be careful and pay attention to the following:

  • Pay attention to rotating parts and belts while the engine is running.
  • The power steering fluid can be hot during operation. Take precautions to avoid burns.
  • Power steering systems can reach operating pressures of over 100 bar during operation. Always follow the vehicle or equipment manufacturer’s instructions when working on the system.
  • The power steering fluid is flammable. Always keep it away from hot exhaust manifolds, pipes, or catalysts.
  • The power steering fluid is aggressive and cleans up spills immediately.
  • Wear suitable chemical-resistant gloves when working on hot systems

Diagnosis based on customer concerns

Based on the client’s complaint about poor vehicle handling, diagnostics of the steering system and detection of the cause of the malfunction are performed. Read more

Noise-based diagnosis

When customers complain of abnormal noise or vibration coming from the steering system, diagnostics are performed based on that noise. Read more

Steering system visual inspection

A visual inspection of the steering system includes an inspection of the tire, steering system, steering wheel, and tie rod. Read more

Power steering fluid check

Checking the steering fluid should be done regularly. Too little or contaminated and old servo oil leads to irregularities in the operation of the steering system. Read more

Diagnosing power steering fluid leakage

Diagnosing power steering fluid leakage is performed when the oil level is lower than the prescribed minimum value during the check. Read more

Bleeding a power steering system

When air enters the hydraulic part, it is necessary to bleed from the power steering system. Read more

Flushing a power steering system

Flushing is done when it is time for a replacement when the fluid is dirty or after mechanical problems with the steering pump or gear. Read more

Power steering pressure test

A pressure test of the power steering system is performed when the customer complains of difficult steering or when there are repeated hose failures. Read more

Power steering pump replacement

The power steering pump replacement is performed when, due to difficult and noisy steering, it is determined that the cause is a defective pump. Read more

Steering pump pulley replacement

When the steering pump is changed, the pulley is removed from the old one and mounted on the new pump. It also changes when damaged. Read more

Replacing power steering hoses

Replacing power steering hoses is performed when power steering fluid leaks, cracks, and bulging hoses are found during the check. Read more

Inspecting mounting bushings and brackets

Inspecting mounting bushings and brackets are performed when the driver complains of poor steering or knocking while driving or cornering. Read more

Rack and pinion inspection

Rack and pinion inspection mean a detailed check of all elements from tie-rod ends, through the rack and pinion assembly to the control gear. Read more

Rack and pinion replacement

Removing and replacing the rack and pinion is done after inspection of all parts of the system to ensure that problem is in the rack assembly. Read more

Inspecting the steering column

Inspecting the steering column is necessary to detect malfunctions that can endanger the lives of the driver and the people around him. Read more

See also

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