Power Steering Rack Or Pump: Which Is It?

If your car’s power steering has suddenly stopped working, it could be that its power steering pump has failed. The unit itself may be finished or it might be that a loss of steering fluid from a bad hose is causing the problem. Whatever the reason, you’ll want to handle the problem now or you soon could find yourself having trouble steering a car that seems to be working in opposition to you.

Buzzing, Whining Noises Are Bad Signs

Prior to when pump failure becomes obvious, you’ll likely hear buzzing or whining noises emitting from under the hood. Also, if you notice a gradual loss of power by having increased difficultly moving the steering wheel [e.g., attempting to parallel park] or if the problem surfaces when you first start up your car for the day, then your steering rack may be worn out.

In most cases steering racks fail slowly, but when they do fail you must take action immediately. Otherwise, control of your car becomes compromised with failure happening at any time, such as when you are driving on a busy roadway. This becomes a a very strong safety threat!

Observe Your Power Steering Fluid

To learn if it is the steering rack behind the problem, first examine the power steering fluid to observe whether small metallic pieces of metal floating around in it or not. If they are, then your steering rack is wearing out and the metallic pieces are visible proof that the rack is coming apart bit by bit.

No matter how you look at it, you can expect that a major repair bill is coming your way. This isn’t the news that you want to hear, but you do have some options. Certainly, taking your car to your local garage or to your dealer’s repair department will cost you a mint. You’ll pay for labor in addition to incurring a big charge for a replacement steering pump or for a steering rack.

Do The Job Yourself

However, if you are somewhat skilled with working on your car, you can do this job yourself. Of course, where you choose to buy replacement parts can make a difference in the price you pay for the part, but strong savings can be realized if you shop around. Auto parts wholesalers can offer to you discount prices; go with reputable online wholesalers who buy directly from leading manufacturers and pass on their savings to you. No dealer mark ups, no third party charges; just every day low prices on the parts that you want.

Yes, you can replace your power steering pump or steering rack today while saving big on labor costs and replacement parts. Do the job yourself and gain a strong sense of personal satisfaction by taking on the challenge and saving money in the process.