Steering is one of the things we take for granted in our vehicles. Let’s break it down into two areas: first, the power assist and second, the actual parts that steer the vehicle.
Most people under 40 have never driven a car or truck without power steering. Most vehicles today have a hydraulic power steering pump that provides boost to help you steer. The pump is usually driven by the serpentine belt, but some newer vehicles have an electric pump. Some vehicles even have an electric motor that directly powers the steering.
The important thing to keep in mind is that these pumps and motors will eventually wear out and the hoses will start to leak. You can postpone that day by having a power steering fluid service from time to time. Out mechanics will add BG Quick Clean to safely and effectively remove accumulated residues from the entire power steering/rack and pinion system, then remove the old fluid and replace it with fresh, clean fluid. This process removes water and contaminants that can corrode power steering parts. The recommended service interval for power steering fluid is every 30,000 miles. Your vehicle may be eligible for the BG Lifetime Protection Plan which provides up to $4,000 coverage for lubricated power steering components.
What about the mechanical steering parts? Is there anything you can do to maintain them? Yes. If any of the steering parts can be lubed, your technician will take care of that with a lube, oil and filter service. Other than that, just watch for signs that parts are wearing out — things like loose steering, clunking noises and uneven tire wear.
Worn parts can be replaced to get you back on the road. Now, sometimes parts can be bent or damaged from hitting potholes, curbs or rocks. It’s important to take care of these problems early on. If you neglect them, the damaged parts stress other attached components which starts a chain reaction of damage.
Steering maintenance is pretty straight forward: Replace power steering fluid as recommended and replace worn or damaged parts right away. That’ll save you money in the long run.
Contact a professional service advisor at InMOTION Auto Care for more details.
InMOTION Auto Care