
Firstly, your steering inputs are amplified, thus little movement can cause the car to turn more. Without it, the power steering would not function properly.
Therefore, power steering fluid is an important part of any hydraulic power steering system. This is regarding the flow of power steering fluid, where hydraulic pressure is transmitted. Through a hydraulically assisted power steering system, the steering wheel operates several valves that control flow to the cylinders or actuators. The input is taken straight from your actions on the steering wheel. This is then connected to a hydraulic actuator or cylinder, which will then force that hydraulic pressure onto the steering gear. The hydraulic pressure itself is exerted through a special pump that is connected to, and powered by the engine. It does this through a series of hydraulic actuators, to amplify your inputs through the steering wheel. This allows the car’s wheels to take your steering inputs with greater ease. For most vehicles today, power steering is often hydraulically assisted.
Conclusion What Is Power Steering, And Power Steering Fluid?īefore we can discuss more on power steering fluid, we’ll first need to understand how power steering works. In our guide today, we’re going to take a closer look at how this came to be, and how you can fix it. Power steering fluid, just like everything else on a car, needs attention every now and then. Maybe you’re noticing some very unpleasant noises every time you turn the wheel. Have you ever thought of going out for a drive one day, and notice that your steering is just a bit too stiff? Or, perhaps you might’ve noticed that your steering is a bit jerky while driving. But I’m sure it’s fair to say that at least a few people out there have experienced problems with their power steering fluid. This ease is afforded thanks not only to the power steering itself, but to its hydraulic fluids, too. This is what allows you to turn your car effortlessly, and without needing to break a single sweat. But for all its goodness, there is at least one key point of failure for this wonderful creation – power steering fluid.Īs the hydraulic medium that is responsible for transmitting the power of your inputs into action, power steering fluid is a very important component. There’s no need for a gym when you have old-fashioned non-assisted steering to work with every single day. Some of us have had the experience of doing intense workouts in older automobiles, just to make a simple turn.
Although we can take it for granted at times, it’s fair to say that power steering is one of the most under-appreciated inventions in any car.