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Power Steering

The function of the power steering system (or power steering) is to ensure easy and precise handling when you are driving your vehicle. As the technology of motor vehicles has improved considerably, our Autotech Performance technicians will ensure that this system operates optimally.

Main components of the servo steering system

  • Power steering pump
  • Servo steering fluid
  • Steering rack
  • Speed sensor
  • Steering wheel

How does the servo steering system work?

When you’re driving your vehicle, the power steering system assists you by directing a portion of the power from the engine to one or the other of the front wheels.

Most power steering systems use a hydraulic device to turn the wheels of the vehicle. The power steering pump is a hydraulic pump that is driven by a belt installed on the main engine pulley at about twice the speed of the engine. This pump circulates under very high pressure the servo-steering fluid to the steering rack which is located under the vehicle between the front wheels. The servo steering fluid is designed to withstand approximately 1200 pounds of pressure without decomposing or scumming.

The speed sensor is connected to the transmission and senses the speed of the vehicle to determine how much assistance the system needs to provide: when speed increases, assistance decreases to 35 mph when there is no more assistance; when the speed decreases, the system provides increasing help until the vehicle comes to a standstill.

When you turn the steering wheel to the left or right, pressurized fluid is directed from that side of the steering rack to reach the tie rod located at that end of the rack.


Signs of potential trouble related to your car’s steering system

  • Excessive wear of tires
  • Difficult steering or steering wheel control
  • Loss of control during sudden stops
  • Excessive yaw when changing lanes
  • Grinding of the belt
  • Servo-steering fluid leaks
  • Noise during sharp turns
  • Start squeak
  • Driving hard or jerky
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