Power steering fluid reservoir in a new car

The Importance of Maintaining Your Power Steering System

When most drivers consider car maintenance, they think of oil changes, tire rotations, or brake pads. But there’s one system that is essential for your everyday driving comfort and safety, and it often gets taken for granted, and that is the power steering system.

Here at America 1st Automotive, we want our customers to know just how important the system is and why you need to have your system serviced regularly.

Power steering fluid reservoir in a new car
Power Steering Fluid Reservoir

1. What is Power Steering?

Power steering makes it easy to steer your car using either a hydraulic or electric system. Without power steering, you’d have to work much harder to turn the steering wheel, particularly at low speeds and when stopped with your vehicle idling. If you’ve ever driven an older car that doesn’t have power steering, you already know how difficult it can be.

A mechanic checking the power steering fluid in a vehicle
A Technician Inspecting the Power Steering Fluid

2. Indications That You Need Power Steering Service

Typically, you’ll get some warning signs that your power steering system is about to go out. Here’s what to look for:

  • Whining or groaning sounds when turning the wheel
  • Abnormal steering performance when the vehicle is driven, particularly at low speeds.
  • Hard steering or steering wheel is stiff and difficult to turn
  • Fluid leaking from the front of your vehicle
  • A burning odor — due in part to overheated fluid
  • If you see any of these signs, it’s time to schedule an appointment with America 1st Automotive.

3. The Importance of Maintenance

There’s more to power steering than comfort — it’s safety. This is why proper maintenance is important:

  • Avoid system breakdown: Proper care can save you trouble and potential harm on the road.
  • Guard components: Aged, dirty fluid can harm hoses, seals, and the pump itself, and getting these parts replaced isn’t cheap.
  • Enhances steering: Ensuring the system is stiff encourages better steering response.
  • Saves money: Checking for leaks and flushing the system are much more affordable than replacing an entire steering rack or pump.

4. What is involved in Power Steering Service?

At America 1st Automotive, we suggest that you have your power steering checked and serviced annually, or based on what your vehicle’s manufacturer suggests. A typical service may be in the following manner:

  • Inspecting for leaks
  • Inspection of levels and condition of fluids
  • Draining the system and adding new fluid
  • Checking that the steering responds correctly
  • Checking belts and hoses for wear
  • Power steering flush
A mechanic checking the power steering fluid in a vehicle
A Mechanic Checking The Power Steering Fluid Levels

Stay Safe On The Road

Don’t let your steering become a fight. Whether you’re piloting a small commuter vehicle or a massive full-size truck, your vehicle’s power steering system needs love, too. At America 1st Automotive, we can offer professional inspection and maintenance services so you can continue to enjoy a safe, comfortable drive.

Give your power steering a check-up, because control, comfort, and safety are the top priorities.

Let America 1st Automotive help you perform an inspection of your vehicle’s power steering system today

Call America 1st Automotive at (540) 356-0656 Today!