Power Steering Issues In European Cars – From Leaks, Smells, & Warning Signs

European cars are known for their precise handling and excellent driving dynamics. From coordinated neutral steering to feeling the optimal amount of steering feedback around a corner, your car’s steering system is paramount to the driver experience as well as to your safety. In this article, we look at the top power steering issues found in European cars, and which warning signs you can look out for.

Identifying A Steering Fluid Leak

Fluid leaks are a common occurrence on hydraulic steering systems and are usually a result of worn O-rings or hoses. Learning to identify a steering fluid leak is about knowing what color good-quality synthetic steering fluid should be.

How Unusual Smells Are Connected To Power Steering Issues

This may come as a highly underrated diagnostic tool, but one that you shouldn’t brush aside. Here are the smells to be on the lookout for.

Burning Fluid Smell

This could be a sign that your hydraulic fluid is either running low or degraded, which results in increased friction inside your pump. Fluid in this state overheats, causing that oily, burning odor.

Burning Rubber Smell

Different from a burning fluid smell, a burning rubber smell points towards a worn steering pump pulley or drive belt. As the rubber from the pulley slips, it wears prematurely, causing a burning smell.

Melting Plastic Smell

A melting plastic or electrical smell is a sign that your control module or steering pump is burning out and possibly pulling too much current. It can also be a result of a fluid leak dripping onto your exhaust.

If you notice any of these unfamiliar smells coming from your car, it’s best to pull over and contact a trusted Pompano Beach auto repair facility immediately.

Three Common Warning Signs Of Power Steering Issues

Look out for these three warning signs when it comes to identifying a possible power steering fluid malfunction.

Stiffened Steering

Your steering action shouldn’t be overly stiff, as this can be a sign that your power steering is malfunctioning. If you’re battling to turn your wheel to get around tight corners or to fit into a park, it’s worth getting it checked out. Heavy or jerky steering can point towards a failing pump, a slipping serpentine belt, or an electrical issue.

Dashboard Warning Lights

Warning lights are your friend and can help bring your attention toward an issue before it’s too late. Power steering warning lights usually look like a steering wheel icon or can light up the letters “EPS”. If you notice an amber colored light, this could warn you of a non-critical fault, such as a faulty sensor. A red warning light is more serious and should result in an immediate call for assistance. Be sure not to ignore these warning lights, as they can save you from a more costly repair.

Whining Sound

If you’re noticing a high-pitched whining sound as you turn the steering wheel, this can be a result of air entering your power steering fluid. Air begins to compress your fluid mixture, causing a whine or groaning noise.

3 Maintenance Tips To Safeguard Your Power Steering

These three maintenance routines will help you to prevent power steering issues from occurring.

1) Maintain A Healthy Battery

Electric power steering (EPS) systems rely on the electrical current that your battery emits. If you have a weak and inconsistent current pull from your battery, your power steering could be affected. Battery issues usually trigger a warning light on your dashboard, so if you suspect an issue, be sure to book your car in for a check.

2) Invest In Regular Power Steering Fluid Flushes

Although hydraulic power steering fluid doesn’t need to be replaced as often as engine oil, it should be flushed every two to three years. Over time, your power steering mesh filter can become clogged, compromising steering performance.

3) Adapt Your Steering Style

Adopting a more aggressive steering approach may be necessary in certain situations, especially if you enjoy track days; however, this type of steering produces added friction and can increase your hydraulic pressure. Even locking your steering wheel frequently or for too long can also lead to heat build-up, which can eventually cause premature wear and tear on your power steering system.

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