Why Your Car is so Easy to Handle - The Power Steering System - Vol.325
Many vehicles in existence today feature power steering. More appropriately named, power assisted steering, power steering is the car function that greatly facilitates steering when driving at low speeds and when parking, it also makes driving very heavy vehicles effortless, even for people who are not especially strong.
As the name implies, power steering is a system that allows the driver to steer the wheels of the car with the help of hydraulic or electric power, sometimes a combination. One type of system simply adds a push that makes the driver's effort easier. Other systems can handle all the effort, detecting the movement from the driver's force applied to the steering wheel.
The goal is to make it easier for the driver to move the steering wheel of car or truck. While the goal is accomplished in many different ways, the following standard features are included in every design:
Steering Sensor - a sensor is present to detect the movement of the steering wheel by the force being applied by the driver. The system "feels" the direction the driver is turning the wheel and applies its force accordingly.
A Hydraulic Pump - powered by the engine this pump raises the pressure in the steering fluid. This is what gives power to the movement of the system.
Valves and Hoses - a system of high pressure hoses and valves are used to transfer power throughout the system. Applying greater power to one side of the system causes the steering to move in one direction.
Actuators - as the high-pressure steering fluid is applied to the actuators, the front wheels are moved to one side or the other. This works differently in different designs.
This describes the way a hydraulic power steering system operates; electric systems are different but still achieve the same results.
The proper function of a power steering system implies it will aid in the steering of the vehicle without taking over the steering or having any other negative effect on the handling of the vehicle. This means that the handling would still be responsive but not too sensitive, and also give the driver an accurate feel of what the wheels are doing beneath the car.
Modern car manufacturers achieve these goals to perfection. Many large SUVs and Pickup trucks can be driven by people of all sizes and strengths and with unprecedented accuracy. But as "powerful" as powering steering is, it is a highly developed mechanism and can fail if not given proper care.
The most common reasons a power steering mechanism will fail are as follow:
Loss of power steering fluid - in Hydraulic Systems only
Pump Failure - in Hydraulic Systems only
Power Loss - this can happen in either electric or hydraulic systems and can be caused by a failure of engine power or a failure of the power system itself for many different reasons.
What To Do When Faced With a Sudden Power Steering Failure
When the power steering fails, the driver can experience a panic. This is especially so at high speeds. It may seem that you have lost control of the vehicle, but it is only more difficult to steer and possibly apply the brakes. DO NOT SLAM ONTHE BRAKES. Don't Panic, either! Regain your composure and turn on the hazard lights. Make your way to the side of the road, while it will be more difficult to steer or stop the car it is not impossible. YOU CAN do it!
In Conclusion
Never underestimate the importance of regular maintenance of your vehicle's vital systems. The user's guide can provide important information on the specific needs of your vehicle. Providing this proper service will keep your automobile's power steering system and all other vital functions working in top conditions.